The Los Angeles Dodgers are active in the free agent market for catchers this offseason, but we can cross one player off the list. Ryan Doumit turned down the Dodgers' offer a one-year deal worth "just under $3 million" according to Mike DiGiovanna of the Los Angeles Times.
Doumit is known for his bat than his defense behind the plate, and he hit .303/.353/.477 with eight home runs in 77 games for the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2011. Doumit, who turns 31 in April, was limited by injuries this season, playing just 60 games at catcher. He did not play another position in 2011, but in his career has also started 54 games in right field and 32 games at first base.
The switch-hitting Doumit has hit better from the left side in his career, hitting .275/.336/.461 against right-handed pitching in his career, compared to .262/.329/.388 against left-handers.
The Dodgers lost starting catcher Rod Barajas last week to the Pirates, as he signed a one-year deal plus an option for 2013 on Wednesday. It is unknown whether Doumit's camp submitted a counter offer or if he simply turned down the deal flatly. The Los Angeles Angels have also been linked to Doumit, who could benefit from the occasional start at designated hitter.
A.J. Ellis is out of options and figures to be the backup catcher in 2012, splitting time with whomever the Dodgers sign or acquire, with Tim Federowicz waiting in the wings at Triple A.
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