Jeff Passan of ESPN reports that the Twins have agreed to a one-year contract with catcher Alex Avila. The deal is worth $4.25 million.
Avila, who will turn 33 before spring training begins, spent the past two seasons with the Arizona Diamondbacks. Now he returns to the AL Central where he previously played for the Tigers and White Sox.
In 2019 Avila only hit .207 but posted an impressive .353 on-base percentage and a 100 OPS+ in 201 plate appearances while backing up Carson Kelly. His 1.4 WAR in 63 games was better than some seasons he had as a starting catcher.
Which is to say, he’s still pretty solid for a backup. Which is what he’ll be In Minnesota as the caddy for Silver Slugger Award-winner Mitch Garver.
