Detroit Tigers sign catcher Brayan Pena – MLB Update
Former Kansas City Royals catcher Brayan Pena has signed a one year contract with the Detroit Tigers. The Tigers management announced officially on Monday that the seven-year Major League experienced catcher will now play for them.
The Tigers also seem confident on signing of a catcher who is considered one of the most aggressive catchers in the entire Major League. Currently the Tigers have two catchers Alex Avila and Bryan Holaday while Brayan will be playing as backup catcher. He
is likely to start in Spring Training while before coming into Majors next season; he is also expected to play in Triple A affiliates.
"He brings us more experience, and gives us more depth in the organization." said Tigers general manager Dave Dombrowski who recently came back from 2012 Major League Baseball’s annual Winter Meetings in Nashville.
Pena said on his trade, "I had a great time with the Royals my teammates. I loved the fans, I loved the city, I respected my coaches, every single one that worked with. I feel like I was ready to do whatever it took to stay there, but I guess it didn't work
out for them."
He added, “I know that guy has stood up for me a lot of times, Maybe some people didn't want me there, but he got my back and he fought for me and I'm very thankful for that.”
Pena, who is a switch hitter as well, will provide a great help to the Tigers grow smoothly into the fresh Major League season. Experts believe that Pena’s arrival in the Tigers roster will also help them improve their different aspects of the game.
Tigers’ current full time catcher, Alex Avila has been suffering from knee troubles. Pena’s presence will make sure that if Avila gets hurt; the Tigers have a good back plan and can play on a smooth pace.
Pena also provides a good offensive thrust with the bat. He last played for the Kansas City Royals and showed his hitting prowess. He achieved consistent numbers of .236 hitting average along two homers, 25 RBIs and .262 OBP. Not only this recent past Major
League Baseball season, Pena also possesses good career .248 hitting average along with 14 homers, 98 RBIs and .286 OBP.
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