The Chicago White Sox appear to be taking their first steps toward solidifying the catcher position in 2024 as Yasmani Grandal has hit the free agency market.
According to a report from Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the White Sox have agreed to a one-year deal with veteran backstop Martín Maldonado.
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Martin Maldonado to the White Sox. 1 year plus option. @ByRobertMurray The White Sox are reportedly continuing to improve their defense
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 27, 2023
The 37-year-old Maldonado has had a handful of brutal offensive campaigns with the Houston Astros, offset by his effectiveness and rapport with the pitching staff.
Although Maldonado posted an OPS+ of 58, 70 and 66 over the last three seasons, respectively, he posted a defensive WAR of 2.8 during that time and developed an extensive rapport with the Astros' pitching staff.
While Maldonado has been one of the league's easiest-hitting players in recent years, he has served as the Astros' primary catcher in each of the last four seasons, a role that could remain on the South Side since the White Sox don't have a clear successor have to Grandal.
With young catchers Korey Lee and Carlos Pérez also in the system, Maldonado's presence off the field could be a valuable contribution to strengthening the position within the organization.
On the South Side, the White Sox are hoping Maldonado brings some of his advanced game knowledge to a pitcher who was among the worst in the league last season.
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