Henry Blanco

2013

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2012

The D-Backs re-signed Blanco in November following a productive campaign where he managed to hit eight homers in just 100 at-bats. With Miguel Montero in position to shoulder a heavy workload again, Blanco will remain in position to start a game or two per week while providing a valuable veteran presence to the organization's young pitching staff.

2011

Blanco signed with the Mets in December 2009 to serve as their backup catcher; a role he ably filled first behind Rod Barajas then Jose Thole. Blanco signed with Arizona in December where he will once again be a defense-first backup backstop.

2010

Blanco is a legitimate backup catcher with a cannon and the ability to hit lefties. He's a marginal second catcher in NL-only leagues. The Mets signed him in the offseason, and given their catching situation, Blanco may play more than expected, which doesn't change his value at all.

2009

Blanco is a free agent at press time, but it's likely he'll re-sign with the Cubs before the start of the season. He's a 37-year-old backup catcher with a career .658 OPS. Don't make a big push for him based on a surprisingly productive 2008 at the plate.

2008

Blanco missed most of 2007 with a neck injury, but should be fine for the start of 2008. He'll resume his job as the Cubs' No. 2 catcher, this time behind prospect Geovany Soto. Even if Blanco were to take over the job, at best, he'd hit for a modicum of power and a low average while playing solid defense behind the plate.

2007

Blanco's a good defensive catcher with a tiny bit of pop. He'll see a start or two per week backing up Michael Barrett.

2006

Blanco is an above average backup catcher who throws out runners and has a tiny bit of home run pop. He won't reach first base to save his life, and it would be a minor miracle if he hit .260.

2005

Blanco was pressed into a starting role with the Twins for much of the season after Joe Mauer was injured and responded with 10 home runs and strong defense behind the plate (throwing out 30 of 61 base stealers). However, the rest of his hitting was anemic. He should continue to provide modest power and strong defense from a backup catcher role with the Cubs, but if he gets significant at-bats he will kill a fantasy team's batting average.

2004

Blanco will mentor Joe Mauer as a backup in Minnesota. He'll be the third catcher on the roster and may not last the season. Don't expect many at bats.

2003

Blanco will likely back up Javy Lopez again. He's got a strong arm and is considered a strong defensive lineup. He'll kill your batting average if left in your lineup, however.