Bringing in Barajas

Last week the Pirates jumped into the free agent market, by signing catcher Rod Barajas. They signed the former Dodger to a one year deal worth $4 million, with a $3.5 million option for 2013.

Barajas will never excite those that value on base percentage, but he does have some good pop in his bat. Barajas hit 16 home runs in 2011 with the Dodgers, while still playing an average defensive value at catcher.

At his age, one could expect to see some dropoff, but the contract he signed is about what one would expect to see for a player of his value. He come cheaper than Doumit would have, who reportedly turned down $3 million from the Dodgers, while giving the team above replacement value.

While the signing of Barajas is not something to get all giddy over, it is nice to note that the Pirates made a move early to address their needs. They clearly targeted Barajas early as a replacement and struck quickly. That clearly is much better than sitting around waiting for who falls, as has been the case in years past.

The shopping list shrunk a little last week, but there is still plenty more room to improve.