BRONX, N.Y. — New York Yankees general manager hopes his mining in the Rockies will yield more gold in 2020.
As first reported by WFAN’s Sweeny Murti, the club has agreed to terms on a minor-league contract with former Colorado Rockies catcher Chris Iannetta.
Yankees are close to signing veteran catcher Chris Iannetta to a minor league deal. Played 14 seasons mostly with COL and LAA. Turns 37 in April. Along with Eric Kratz, will provide veteran depth/competition for Kyle Higashioka as backup to Gary Sanchez.
— Sweeny Murti (@YankeesWFAN) January 9, 2020
Following Austin Romine’s departure to the Detroit Tigers, Iannetta joined a group of backstops looking to back up Gary Sanchez, along with Kyle Higashioka and Eric Kratz.
The 14-year veteran will turn 37 in April.
Prior to being designated for assignment last Aug., Iannetta posted a slash line of .222/.311/.417 in 52 contests.
Baseball-Reference projects Iannetta to hit 12 home runs next season, which is the kind of pop you’d take if that’s what you want out of your backup backstop.
In 1,197 games between the Rockies, Arizona Diamondbacks, Los Angeles Angels and Seattle Mariners, Iannetta has 141 home runs.
If he sticks on the squad, Iannetta would join DJ LeMahieu, Mike Tauchman, Adam Ottavino, and Tommy Kahnle as the former Rockies on the roster.
