ASTROS LAND CATCHER CONGER
The Houston Astros acquired catcher Hank Conger from the Los Angeles Angels for catcher Carlos Perez and pitcher Nick Tropeano.
What does it give the Houston Astros
This could be an interesting addition for the 'Stros, since the switch-hitting Conger is still only 26 years old and has some untapped offensive upside. He may not have as much power as incumbent left-handed batter {P Jason Castro}, but he strikes out far less. Conger may work himself into a time-sharing situation behind the plate in Houston or serve as a very quality backup. There is also a chance Houston trades Castro for some pitching now. This move gives the Astros options.
What does it give the Los Angeles Angels
Conger tried, and tried, but was never able to unseat {P Chris Iannetta} with the Angels. So, the club dealt him to Houston for his potential successor in Perez, a strong defensive catcher (something manager Mike Scioscia loves) who doesn't have as much potential with the bat as Conger. He'll likely back up Iannetta in 2015. As for Tropeano, he'a 24-year-old right-hander with some upside who started four games for Houston in '14. He could end up in the Angels rotation next season.
Fantasy impact
Conger goes into his new situation with Houston as a fantasy dark horse--which is essentially what he was in Los Angeles, too. Castro will likely start spring training ahead of Conger, but Castro's value may take a dip if both remain with Houston throughout '15. Perez doesn't have much fantasy value regardless of his destination, while Tropeano's stock is on the rise after the move to the Angels.
