Astros Name Christian Vázquez Backup Catcher for Opening Day

The Astros have made a clear decision for their Opening Day roster at the backup catcher spot, naming veteran Christian Vázquez to fill the role behind starter Yainer Díaz. César Salazar, who had been in contention for the job, will not make the team and is being designated for assignment.

Because Salazar is out of minor-league options, he would need to clear waivers to remain in Houston’s system, meaning another team could claim him.

Vázquez joined the Astros on a minor-league deal earlier this month and did not get to camp until late due to representing Team Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic.

Still, the Astros were already familiar with him from his 11 major-league seasons and his half-season with Houston in 2022. Vázquez brings a wealth of experience, including stints on World Series champion teams in Boston in 2018 and Houston in 2022. He even caught a combined no-hitter in Game 4 of the 2022 World Series.

While his offense has been modest in recent seasons, posting a .189/.271/.274 line with the Twins last year, his defensive value remains strong. Last season he was worth plus-five defensive runs saved at catcher, and Statcast rated him above-average in blocking and throwing, Houston Chronicle.

Salazar, meanwhile, has played 36 major-league games over the last three seasons and is highly respected in the clubhouse, but the Astros ultimately went with the more experienced Vázquez to provide stability behind Díaz.

The move clears a 40-man roster spot and gives the team a veteran presence to guide Houston’s young pitchers.