The Astros avoided arbitration with catcher Humberto Quintero, according to a team press release. Eligible for arbitration for the third time, Quintero will earn $1MM in 2011. He gets a $250K raise after hitting .234/.262/.317 in 276 plate appearances and catching 653 2/3 innings.
The Astros have seven remaining arbitration eligible players: Nelson Figueroa, Hunter Pence, Michael Bourn, Matt Lindstrom, Jeff Keppinger, Wandy Rodriguez, and Clint Barmes. I expect they'll all be tendered contracts on Thursday. Among the seven, Rodriguez is an extension candidate according to GM Ed Wade.
Sportscenter
Why? WHY do they keep bringing this punch and judy hitter back each year? He hits .250 in a GOOD year. This guy is the second coming of Mario Mendoza!!
Please, Astros…just let the rookie catch everyday and, if you have to, mix in Quintero once a week at most.
God, it sucks to be an Astros fan.
Sportscenter
Why? WHY even bring this punch and judy hitter back at all? he hits .250 in a good season. Good gosh, Quintero is the second coming of MArio Mendoza – ’nuff said.
I’m so angry I had to type the same letter TWICE. 🙂
Romeo
catchers aren’t expected to hit 300/350/450. Theyre expected to do exactly what q does and thats throw guys out consistently, career 36% which is above average by my reckoning. Matches Mauers mark and he’s a multi-time (3?) GG and Molina is a freak, so we won’t compare him to that.