The Oakland Athletics have acquired catcher Geovany Soto from the Texas Rangers, sources confirm to Chris Cotillo of SB Nation's MLB Daily Dish. Cotillo's source confirmed a tip received from Mark Madson, one of Cotillo's readers. The Rangers will also receive cash considerations in exchange for Soto with no other players involved, according to Jeff Passan of Yahoo Sports.
The acquisition of Geovany Soto comes as a surprise on the Athletics' part. Oakland already has three catchers on their roster in Derek Norris, John Jaso, and Stephen Vogt. Norris will continue to be the starting catcher for Oakland, as Soto will likely split time as his backup along with Jaso, as well as the team's designated hitter. Vogt is not really considered a catching option anymore (can still catch), as he is more suitable for the outfield and first base. The addition gives manager Bob Melvin more flexibility at the catching position.
Soto has been out for most of the season due to multiple injury issues, most notably a torn meniscus that needed surgery to repair. In only ten games this season, Soto has hit .237/.237/.368 with one home run and three runs batted in.
Soto was elected to the All-Star Game in 2008, where he also won the National League Rookie of the Year. In 2008, he hit .285/.364/.504 with 23 home runs, 86 runs batted in, and 35 doubles. His production tailed off majorly after that season. In the past three seasons combined, he is hitting .215/.286/.383 in 583 plate appearances, with 21 home runs, 64 runs batted in, and 23 doubles.
Soto is likely to become a costless-agent after the 2014 campaign, as the 31-year-old has his contract of one-year, $3.05 million expire.