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According to Jon Heyman and re-reported by MLB Trade Rumors, the Astros have signed infielder Cesar Izturis to a minor-league contract. During his 15-year career, the 33-year-old Izturis has spent time with nine different organizations.
Izturis bats rightie and carries a .254/.293/.322 slash line for his career. Most recently, he batted .209/.259/.271 for the Cincinnati Reds in 2013.
Izturis is mostly known for his above-average defensive play. By UZR/150, he is +7 for his career, with 63 Defensive Runs Saved. As such, he figures to have a shot to win a utility role with the Astros, backing up the 2B, 3B, and Short Stop positions.
His main competition for backup-infielder role is former Rule-5 pick Marwin Gonzalez, who batted .221/.252/.319 for the Astros last season, with average defensive value.