The Arizona Diamondbacks made their first significant move of the offseason on Tuesday, signing free-agent catcher Stephen Vogt to a one-year contract that includes a vesting option for the 2021 season.
Vogt, who turned 35-years-old earlier this month, is an MLB veteran with ample experience behind the dish for various teams in the league. The California native began his career with the Tampa Bay Rays before spending several seasons with the Oakland Athletics, then passing through the Brewers and Giants organizations.
He spent last season with San Francisco in a part-time role. He caught 99 games for the team, posting solid offensive numbers. His .263 batting average, .314 on-base percentage, and 10 home runs made him an above-average offensive contributor at the position.
Vogt underwent shoulder surgery two years ago which caused him to miss the 2018 season. After undergoing the surgery, he found his ability to catch runners stealing diminished. This was one concern that teams faced when considering whether or not to sign him this offseason.
In any case, Vogt is expected to serve as at least a part-time starter for the Giants in the 2020 season. Financial terms and specifics of his contract were not immediately made public.
