Phillies Sign Catcher Humberto Quintero

We may already know who will get some playing time for the Phillies while catcher Carlos Ruiz is suspended for 25 games in April.  According to Bob Brookover of the Philadelphia Inquirer, the Phillies have signed veteran catcher Humberto Quintero.  Quintero played 2012 for the Kansas City Royals and their AAA affiliate.

Quintero just may help fill the gap created by Carlos Ruiz's suspension.  While Erik Kratz appears to have the inside track to start, but the Phillies will need another catcher.  Quintero is someone who has bounced back and forth between AAA and the majors much of his career.  In 422 major league games Quintero has hit .234.  In 2012, Quintero hit .232 in 42 games for the Royals.

This is the type of move the Phillies needed to make to deal with the Ruiz suspension.  Quintero presumably is added on a minor-league contract and can be added to the roster before Opening Day.  Then, when Ruiz returns, Quintero likely would clear waivers and be outrighted to AAA and be stashed there in case a catcher gets hurt.