Cardinals’ Rumors: Options to fill in during Yadier Molina absence

Jul 3, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Colorado Rockies first baseman Wilin Rosario (20) hits a two RBI double in the first inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

Wilin Rosario

I will admit that this is my favorite of the bunch. While Rosario has been playing in hitter friendly Colorado for all of his career, he has put up some decent numbers in his career. Through five big league seasons Rosario has a slash of .273/.306/.473 with 71 career homers. His numbers have been on the decline since his breakout 2012 campaign when he slugged 28 homers and hit .292 the very next year.

In 87 games played last season, Rosario had his lowest “full season” OPS+ at just 79. Rosario would have likely had two more years left with the Rockies had he not been put on waivers late last month, instead of joining AAA Albuquerque after clearing waivers.

The problem with Rosario? His defense at the catcher position is atrocious and that is not what the Cardinals need, despite his very reduced playing time. Last year, Rosario only logged 17.1 innings at the position and spent the majority of his season at first base. Though the intrigue there is that Rosario could give the Cardinals a right handed option at first base sticking on the roster as a third catcher and option at first base.

If the Cardinals are looking for a guy they could potentially right into a very valuable bench option and possible candidate to help the first base problem, then Rosario very well could be the guy. However, the 45 pass balls he has in his career would likely not be a fit for the Cardinals, unless their really desperate.

Next: Michael McKenry