Phillies Acquire Garrett Stubbs, Kent Emanuel From Astros
The Philadelphia Phillies swung a trade with the Houston Astros Friday, acquiring catcher Garrett Stubbs in exchange for minor league outfielder Logan Cerny. In a separate transaction, the Phillies claimed pitcher Kent Emanuel off waivers from Houston. Stubbs is expected to fill a back-up role behind starting catcher J.T. Realmuto for the Phillies. He hasn't produced much at the big-league level, slashing .182/.238/.247 over three seasons. Emanuel had a bumpy 2021, undergoing elbow surgery as well as being suspended for using a performance-enhancing substance, though he's denied any transgression. He may miss the start of the season, but figures to be a bulk reliever and depth starting option.
Houston Astros catcher Jason Castro (Achilles) has been activated from the 10-day injured list on Tuesday. He has been sidelined since late May due to left Achilles soreness. He was able to get through his rehab assignment without any issues and will return to the Astros now. Castro won't have great upside in fantasy formats since he'll be in a timeshare with Martin Maldonado. In a corresponding move, Garrett Stubbs has been optioned to the minors, but he only collected three hits during his time with Houston this season.
