The Astros have claimed utilityman Brian Bixler off waivers from the Nationals.Bixler, 29, hit .205 with two RBI in 79 games this season, proving a versatile backup who saw action at six different positions: shortstop, third base, first base and all three outfield spots.
The Nationals placed him on waivers earlier this week, clearing a spot on their 40-man roster, and Houston (which had the majors' worst record this season) put in a claim on him.
The move was announced by the Astros this afternoon.
25 comments:
I guess we can write off 2012 now. :-(
Instead of taking this opportunity to make fun of Bixler and/or the Astros lack of depth, I'd like to wish Brian the best. What he lacked in ability he made up for with hustle.
With that kind of power, the Astros will now be the team to watch.
Won't miss his bat, but he made a few great diving catches and helped us win a game or two by stealing a base. Best of luck in Houston, BB.
This guy might blossom a la a Mark DeRosa or Jamey Carroll. He brings a versitile glove and great spped, if he can find an approach at the plate to even a .250 level he's going to keep making MLB rosters. We'll see.
dfh21
There's always a roster spot for a guy like Bixler who has speed and can play defense. Bench players are valuable. Let's take this as a positive sign and hope that this means we have enough depth to replace him on the bench. If I had to guess, this means that Lombardozzi will be the backup infield/utility guy next year.
Good Luck Brian.. I hope he can have a good career (maybe turn into Joe McEwing and eventually manage)
I wish him luck. Its not like we heard him complaining he should be starting like some of our previous bench players have. Made the stellar catch at the end of the season, that's what I'll remember.
I think I'll cut my wrists.
Seriously, Bixler made himself valuable due to his versatility. Sorry he's gone. As for a reserve infielder, perhaps the Nats might sign Jack Wilson cheaply.
Good luck to our best baserunner in 2011!
The way that pitching staff sizes have grown, you only have a few position players on your bench, and you always need a guy who can (and will) play just about anywhere. We liked Bixler and I wish him luck in Houston.
Wish Brian luck, except against the Nats. He was one of the nice guys.
Good luck to Bixler (except against the Nats, natch).
Speaking of Jamie Carroll - isn't he a free agent and wouldn't he make a great addition to our bench?
I liked Brian a lot and wish him the best.
I always liked Jamey Carroll for his hustle.
I really liked Brian's hustle and heart, and never-say-die attitude. Like some others I love Jamey Carroll for the same things. Brian made good things happen for us, and I am glad he got claimed. He's an ex-Nat I will cheer for when I see him in our park.
Reports are out that the Nats and Wang have reached an agreement on a 1-year deal (no other details disclosed) pending a successful physical.
Always loved Jamey.
Just heard bix. Said all the right nice things about the nats "from top to bottom."
Love the carroll comparisons and hope he dies well in TX. Happy trails
Does well Not dies well. Jeez.
NOOOOO! Loved bix. hope he can help the astros. Best hustle/off the bench glove/speed on the team. Great attitude too. Here's to a great career Bixler
Remember his turnaround, diving catch to end a game? Classic Nats!
He has potential, but always seemed to choke under pressure. It's a good sign we are waiving players like this to make room for real established talent.
The guy was a consistent .310 - .320 hitter in AAA, but that never translated to the bigs whenever he came up. I always wondered how he would have done if given the chance to play every day. Maybe he will get the chance in Houston.
I will root for the guy and am sorry to see him go. Speed and defense are assets not to be taken for granted, and he showed his versatility when he seamlessly moved to the outfield. Classy guy, too.
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