Chris Coste

2013

There was no outlook written for Chris Coste.

2009

Coste finished 2008 batting .263 with nine home runs, 36 RBI and 28 runs, though the majority of his productive numbers came in April and May. He platooned with Carlos Ruiz at catcher throughout the year but received just five at-bats compared to Ruiz's 46 in the postseason, as Philadelphia preferred the superior defense that Ruiz provides. Coste should again, at least initially, see a decent number of at-bats in 2009, though that could change if prospect Lou Marson merits a roster spot with his continued improvement. Either way, Coste is not guaranteed enough at-bats to merit fantasy consideration unless you find yourself in a relatively deep NL-only league.

2008

Coste, a minor league veteran who didn't get his first shot in the majors until the age of 33, is now a .336 career hitter in 250 at-bats. He will back up Carlos Ruiz in 2008 as long as he continues to hit. Coste gives the Phillies another right-handed bat off the bench and some added depth at catcher and first base, but he's not much more than a feel-good story for fantasy owners to talk about.

2007

Here’s a heartwarming story that might only happen in baseball. Coste emerged in Philly as a second catcher in 2006 after spending his whole career in the minor leagues, including four seasons in the independent Northern League 10 years ago. He will back up Rod Barajas in 2007 as long as he continues to hit, which should make him a decent $1 catcher.

2005

Coste is a minor league veteran who is looking to catch on with the Phillies as a third catcher and corner infielder.

2004

Coste signed a minor league contract with the Brewers in November and may get a shot at making the team in spring training. He was hurt in 2003 but has always posted a solid OBP during his minor league career. At 30, he's far from a prospect but the Brewers have very little depth at catcher and he may get some playing time for them in 2004.

2003

Played very well in Buffalo last year, but considered more of an organizational soldier than a prospect. In the right organization, Coste could be a decent major league backup.