TCB Astros March Madness 2014: Raul Valdes vs Carlos Corporan

TCB's Astros Fan Favorite March Madness Tournament is underway. From now until the end of Spring Training 64 players will spend the next several weeks facing off in a head to head public vote to determine who advances to the next round and who will eventually be crowned the communities favorite Astros player. For more details check out the tournament introductory post.

The rules are simple, determine which player you want to advance to the next round and then vote. Vote subjectively, objectively, using your trusty magic eight ball or any other set of criteria. It's totally up to you how you want to vote! Votes for this round will last exactly 24 hours.

In this match-up

6 - Raul Valdes

A puzzling move to some, the Astros broke the cycle of aquiring ever young talent with the pick up of Valdes, a 36-year-old reliever. He has several factors going for him aside from the nebulous "veteran leader" label, however. On his career, he's posted rock-solid numbers, including a 3.89 xFIP, 3.03 BB/9 and 9.42 K/9. He's also averaged one and a third innings per relief appearance, so he's more than just a LOOGY, and he's even made a few spot starts in the past, providing an extra level of versatility should the need arise. Though old and with limited innings under his belt, he's been very solid when given a chance to pitch, and he could certainly help stabilize the Major League bullpen. -Ashitaka

vs

11 - Carlos Corporan

The primary backup to Jason Castro had a promising start to 2013 as he provided excellent defense and some pop off the bench. Although in a small sample size, the switch-hitting catcher posted a 117 wRC+ In the first half of the season, including five home runs in 113 at-bats. The second half was rough for Corpy as he hit .154 while missing three weeks with a concussion. Now Max Stassi is firmly in the picture as a better hitting prospect, leaving Corporan's days as an Astro numbered. -Perry