Yainer Diaz projects to be the Houston Astros’ starting catcher on Opening Day of the 2026 season, but who the backup will be is a mystery.
Houston has Cesar Salazar on the roster for the foreseeable future, but he has just 36 games of experience dating back to the 2023 season.
The Athletic’s Chandler Rome reports the Astros would welcome a reunion with Victor Caratini, but there are other interested clubs.
“Victor Caratini became a critical part of [Joe] Espada’s roster flexibility, contributing as a designated hitter, occasional first baseman, and as one of the team’s most trusted pinch hitters,” Rome wrote.
“The Astros have interest in a reunion with Caratini, but clubs in search of everyday catchers have identified Caratini as a target and could make him more lucrative offers,” Rome added. “It stands to reason, too, that Caratini would prefer more regular playing time after two successful seasons in Houston.”
Teams in need of a backup catcher
If Caratini leaves the Astros in free agency, the club would still be likely to find a backup for Diaz despite Salazar’s presence.
One club in need of a right-handed-hitting catcher is the New York Yankees, and although Caratini is a switch-hitter, he could platoon with Austin Wells and or split first base duties with Ben Rice.
The Texas Rangers are thin at catcher after non-tendering Jonah Heim, and the Seattle Mariners are a fit for Caratini, too, if they pass on re-signing Mitch Garver.
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