Arizona Diamondbacks Add Catcher Craig Tatum to 2012 Roster

Craig Tatum, a catcher on waivers from the Houston Astros, has been claimed by the Diamondbacks and added to the 40-man roster.

Tatum had been playing for the Baltimore Orioles before being picked up by the Astros.

On Oct. 28, 2011, he was claimed off waivers by Houston. The Astros designated him for assignment, and he was claimed off waivers by Arizona on Jan. 23, 2012.

With Baltimore in 2011, in 31 games he had a batting average of .245 with three doubles and seven RBI.

Over three seasons in MLB, beginning with the Reds in 2009, he played in 100 games with 269 at-bats, 60 hits, eight doubles, one home run, 22 RBI, two stolen bases and a batting average of .223.

Tatum has been the backup catcher for Matt Wieters on and off since 2010.

In 2011, he was sent back down to the minor leagues but was called back up on June 1 when catcher Jake Fox was designated for assignment.

Tatum has not had phenomenal numbers in the major leagues, but he has put up some solid numbers for a player who has not had a great deal of playing time.

The Diamondbacks appear to have enough confidence in Tatum to utilize him to fill their final spot in the 40-man roster.

He will be a valuable addition to fill a catching role in case of an injury or to give catchers Miguel Montero and Henry Blanco occasional rest.

Craig Tatum has an excellent opportunity to demonstrate his abilities, and Arizona may be the right home for him to display his skills in 2012.