FOX Sports’ Ken Rosenthal tweeted that Astros SS Clint Barmes, acquired in a trade with the Rockies in the preseason, has agreed to a deal with the Astros that will give him $3.925 million next season. With the deal, the two sides will avoid arbitration.
Barmes, who hit .235 with 8 homers in Coors Field last year, is expected to be the Astros everyday shortstop this season. He was acquired from the Rockies for pitcher Felipe Paulino, who will be earning significantly less than $3.925 million this year.
Barmes has a stellar defensive reputation at shortstop, though he hasn’t played the position full-time for awhile thanks to Troy Tulowitzki, and hit 23 homers in 2009. The Astros will be counting on his right-handed pull power to translate well at Minute Maid Park. All at the low, low cost of nearly $4 million.