Particle.news
Download on the App Store
13 ARTICLES
·
last wk.

Astros Bring Back Christian Vázquez on Minor-League Deal With Spring Invite

The reunion adds a defense-first option to an open backup-catcher race behind Yainer Díaz.

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - AUGUST 09: A view of the Houston Astros logo on a bag of baseballs before the game against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on August 09, 2023 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images)
Oct 23, 2019; Houston, TX, USA; The Houston Astros logo in centerfield is seen before game two of the 2019 World Series against the Washington Nationals at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-Imagn Images.
Image
Image

Overview

  • Houston announced Saturday that Vázquez, 35, signed a minor-league contract that includes an invitation to Major League Spring Training.
  • Vázquez is playing for Team Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic and is set to report to Astros camp after his tournament duties conclude.
  • He will compete for the backup job with César Salazar, who is out of minor-league options, and fellow non-roster invitee Carlos Pérez.
  • The veteran’s value is primarily on defense, with +5 Defensive Runs Saved and 14 caught stealings in 56 attempts in 2025, while his bat declined to a .189/.271/.274 line last season with Minnesota.
  • Vázquez returns to Houston after contributing to the 2022 title run, including catching the World Series Game 4 combined no-hitter, as the club seeks low-cost depth following Victor Caratini’s departure.