Sep 30 2008
As Regular Season Ends, A Look at the Top Free Agents: Catchers
This year’s class of free agent catchers is a collection of players past their prime as the youngest on the list is Miguel Olivo at 30. Photo: AP
Brad Ausmus (40) – Ausmus is done.
Paul Bako (37) – Could find a backup role somewhere.
Rod Barajas (33) - $2.5MM club option for ‘09 with a $0.5MM buyout – Underrated swing could draw some interest from a National League club.
Michael Barrett (32) – Career has really fallen off, will likely be looking for a one year deal.
Henry Blanco (37) - $3MM mutual option for ‘09 with a $0.3MM buyout – Backup.
Johnny Estrada (33) – Still has some left but will likely be starting only for a non-contender.
Toby Hall (33) - $2.25MM club option for ‘09 with a $0.15MM buyout - Backup
Jason LaRue (35) – Done.
Paul Lo Duca (37) – He should be done, but always seems to find someone willing to take on his slowing bat.
Miguel Olivo (30) - $2.7MM mutual option for ‘09 with a $0.1MM buyout – Should be able to find a starting role somewhere.
Mike Redmond (38) - $0.95MM club option for ‘09 with a $0.1MM buyout – Done.
Ivan Rodriguez (37) – Small chance of returning to New York, could get some looks, possibly back in Detroit.
David Ross (32) – Backup.
Javier Valentin (33) – Backup.
Jason Varitek (37) – Would expect to see the Captain resign with Boston, but probably only for a one or two year deal.
Gregg Zaun (38) – Veteran who could backup and tutor a young catcher.
