The Houston Astros are expected to add an established backup catcher to their roster before the start of spring training. Victor Caratini inked a two-year deal with the Minnesota Twins last month and seems to have pushed the Astros in the direction of a reunion with Christian Vazquez. While there is familiarity in Vazquez for the Astros, they may want to think twice about spending money of consequence on the 35-year-old catcher.
Fortunately, the Reds may have just provided Houston with a sneaky solution. As the corresponding roster move to the surprise signing of Eugenio Suarez, the Reds have designated catcher Ben Rortvedt for assignment.