The Astros signed catcher Max Ramirez to a minor league deal, according to Zachary Levine of the Houston Chronicle. Carlos Corporan broke a finger last week, further compromising the Astros' catching depth, explained Levine. Ramirez had been released by the Cubs on Friday. The 26-year-old had been claimed off waivers by the Cubs from the Red Sox, who claimed him from the Rangers.
Ramirez hit .286/.373/.381 in 226 plate appearances for the Rangers' Triple-A affiliate last year, picking up another 85 PAs with the big club. He played 11 games for the Cubs' Triple-A team this year. Ramirez may still have potential with the bat, but he is considered a below-average defensive catcher.
