Pudge Passes Physical, Finalizes One-Year Deal

The Houston Astros can officially welcome future Hall-of-Fame catcher Ivan "Pudge" Rodriguez to the active roster.

Rodriguez, the 1999 AL MVP, passed his physical in Orlando, finalizing the one-year, $1.5 million contract. ESPN.com reports the 14-time All-Star will make his spring debut for the Astros this Sunday.

Entering this season, the Astros had to replace veteran catcher Brad Ausmus, who signed a one-year deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers this offseason to backup Russell Martin.

Houston drafted Stanford University catcher Jason Castrowith the 10th overal selection of the 2008 MLB Amateur Draft, but he needs time to work his way up the minor league ladder.

Facing a precarious situation at catcher, the Astros' organization was willing to give Humberto Quintero and J.R. Towlesthe opportunity to earn the starting job. Both Quintero and Towles have struggled this spring, causing GM Ed Wade to seek outside assistance.

Pudge will now slide into the starting lineup, forcing Quintero to move into the backup role. In September, 2007, Towles appeared to be the team's future catcher after setting a franchise record with eight RBIs in a single game. Towles started the 2008 season as the starting catcher, but struggled offensively, losing the job to Ausmus.

Throughout his career, Rodriguez wore No. 7 with the Texas Rangers, Florida Marlins, and Detroit Tigers. Since Houston retired No. 7 to honor the legendary Craig Biggio, Pudge plans on wearing No. 14 on his back. 

For more information on the Houston Astros, visit http://www.examiner.com/x-2910-Houston-Astros-Examiner