Jorge Barrosa joins Houston Astros. Why they added him despite middling offensive numbers

PHILADELPHIA – Outfielder Jorge Barrosa joined the Houston Astros for their series opener against the Phillies on Tuesday after being claimed off waivers from the Diamondbacks over the weekend.

Barrosa, 25, is a switch-hitter who has played all three outfield positions in the majors. He compiled a .180/.241/.302 slash line in 254 plate appearances over parts of three seasons for the Diamondbacks, who designated him for assignment last week.

“Switch-hitter, there’s some speed, can play all three (spots), bat-on-ball skills,” Houston manager Joe Espada said. “Kind of brings a different dynamic to our team. I can deploy him and do some things with him offensively and defensively.”

The Astros optioned Jake Meyers to Triple-A Sugar Land after Sunday’s series finale against Arizona to clear a roster spot for Barrosa. Meyers, who was recalled when rosters expanded Sept. 1, played in three games during the last homestand, all as a late-game replacement.

That projects as Barrosa’s role. Barrosa could become the 16th different player to appear in the Houston outfield this year, and the sixth acquired in-season. Dustin Harris, Daniel Johnson and Nelson Velázquez were waiver claims, LaMonte Wade Jr. signed in free agency and Daulton Varsho acquired via trade.

“I’ll be ready to help the team wherever they need me to,” said Barrosa, after playing countryman Jose Altuve in chess in the visitors’ clubhouse Tuesday afternoon at Citizens Bank Park. “Not sure about the role, but very happy to be here.”

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This article originally published at Jorge Barrosa joins Houston Astros. Why they added him despite middling offensive numbers.