Texas Rangers: Who are the best free agent catcher options remaining?

HOUSTON, TEXAS - OCTOBER 29: Robinson Chirinos #28 of the Houston Astros fields a bunt by Adam Eaton (not pictured) of the Washington Nationals during the first inning in Game Six of the 2019 World Series at Minute Maid Park on October 29, 2019 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TEXAS - OCTOBER 29: Robinson Chirinos #28 of the Houston Astros fields a bunt by Adam Eaton (not pictured) of the Washington Nationals during the first inning in Game Six of the 2019 World Series at Minute Maid Park on October 29, 2019 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /
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HOUSTON, TEXAS – OCTOBER 29: Robinson Chirinos #28 of the Houston Astros fields a bunt by Adam Eaton (not pictured) of the Washington Nationals during the first inning in Game Six of the 2019 World Series at Minute Maid Park on October 29, 2019 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TEXAS – OCTOBER 29: Robinson Chirinos #28 of the Houston Astros fields a bunt by Adam Eaton (not pictured) of the Washington Nationals during the first inning in Game Six of the 2019 World Series at Minute Maid Park on October 29, 2019 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

Robinson Chirinos

The possibility of bringing back Robinson Chirinos is likely one that excites most fans. Chirinos cemented himself as a fan favorite in his six years with the organization. However, a controversial offseason decision by the front office saw Chirinos leave in free agency for in-state rival Houston, much to the chagrin of Texas fans. For Chirinos, the move was personally a fruitful one as he had arguably the best season of his career and reached a World Series with the Astros. Now, Robby C is back on the free agent market and we know the two sides have discussed a return.

At 35 years old, Chirinos is as productive as ever at the plate posting a .238/.347/.443 slash line for Houston last year. He had a very impressive .790 OPS and hit 17 homers in 114 games. His 2.3 fWAR is the highest mark of his career and would be a massive upgrade over the production Texas saw last year. The Rangers predominantly utilized Jeff Mathis (-2.1 fWAR), Jose Trevino (-0.2 fWAR) and Tim Federowicz (-0.2 fWAR) so anything that represents a positive contribution would make the club better. Chirinos was projected to get a two-year deal at $10 million by MLB Trade Rumors and that mark would be pretty fair. Maybe Texas tries for a one-year deal at a higher AAV.