One would think that with Brian Schneider, Jason Kendall, and Ivan Rodriguez landing two year contracts this winter that Rod Barajas, who is one of the top catchers on the market this winter, would have no problem landing a multi year deal.Amazingly, I don't think that'll be the case. In fact, there might not be a team out there that's willing to give Barajas the multi year deal he wants.
Don't believe me? Here are the teams left that are looking to sign a catcher:
- Mariners: Now that Kenji Johjima is back in Japan, the Mariners should be exploring the market for catchers even if they plan to give Rob Johnson extensive playing time. But does anyone really think the Mariners would give Barajas a multi year deal given his low OBP? Doesn't seem likely to me.
- Indians: Sure, they traded Kelly Shoppach, but they are committed to playing Lou Marson at the start of the season and are looking to sign a backup catcher.
- Giants: The Giants have top prospect Buster Posey set to catch in 2010, but they could be interested in bringing a veteran catcher aboard to help Posey. Even if the Giants want to sign Barajas, why would they give him a multi year deal with Posey waiting in the wings?
- Mets: They are the favorites to sign Benjie Molina to a 2 year contract, but would they have interest in Barajas if Molina does not sign?
- Rangers: Interested in signing a catcher, but they are not looking to give Barajas a two year deal.
And believe it or not, that's it. With the Brewers, Royals, Nationals, Blue Jays, and Phillies all set at the catching position, there are very few teams left, who are actively seeking a starting catcher.
It looks like Rod Barajas has been hurt by not signing early. But then again, who knew that veteran backup catchers would be in such high demand this winter? Clearly, Barajas and his agent believed that Barajas would have very little trouble landing a multi year deal with such a poor list of free agent catchers out there. However, it looks like it will be a struggle for Barajas to land the multi year deal he craves.
