Third Baseman Pedro Feliz Signs One-Year Deal with Houston Astros

The latest breaking news coming out of baseball’s winter meetings and the Houston Astros centers on the signing of third baseman Pedro Feliz.

That signing became official this afternoon, according to MLB.com’s Brian McTaggart and confirmed by Astros senior director of digital media Alyson Footer; Houston inked a one-year contract with Feliz worth $4.5 million.

“We’re very pleased to add Pedro [Feliz] to our infield mix,” Astros general manager Ed Wade told McTaggart. “He’s been an outstanding defensive player and a solid run-producer for his entire career. He played a premium position with a two-time World Series participant and was a key part of the Phillies’ success. We’re fortunate to have him on board.”

Feliz joins re-signed Geoff Blum to platoon at third base next year for the Astros.

“Geoff Blum has done a terrific job for us over the past two seasons, and despite the acquisition of a regular third baseman, we believe Geoff will get his at-bats with us and be a key contributor all around the infield,” Wade said. “It’s been a good week for us.”

With the addition of Feliz, the Astros have now made a trio of big moves during the winter meetings, including picking up a pair of relief pitchers in Matt Lindstrom and Brandon Lyon while likely parting ways with guys such as Miguel Tejada and Jose Valverde.

Denton Ramsey may be reached via email at [e-mail]