Royals sign veteran catcher Sandy León to minor league deal
The 12-year MLB veteran is known for his defense
The Royals announced they have signed veteran catcher Sandy León to a minor league deal with an invite to spring training. The 34-year-old León is a 12-year MLB veteran with the Nationals, Red Sox, Guardians, Marlins, Twins, and he spent last year with the Rangers. Known primarily for his defense, León is a career .208/.276/.311 hitter in 554 games.
León has thrown out 29 percent of would-be base-stealers in his career, 12th-best among active catchers. He has been average at pitch framing and pitch blocking.
León is one of seven catchers that will be in big league camp with the Royals. In addition to All-Star Salvador Perez and backup Freddy Fermin, the Royals have invited five non-roster catchers to camp - Tyler Cropley, Rodolfo Duran, Carter Jensen, Logan Porter, and Luca Tresh. This does not include MJ Melendez, a former catcher who the Royals have said will concentrate primarily on playing outfield.