Yankees to Sign Veteran Catcher Chris Iannetta to Minor-League Deal

The New York Yankees' backup catching competition is expected to feature some veteran names, following their latest acquisition.

The Bombers are close to shoring things up and signing Chris Iannetta to a minor-league deal, per Sweeny Murti of WFAN.

Yankees are close to signing veteran catcher Chris Iannetta to a minor league deal. Played 14 seasons mostly with COL and LAA. Turns 37 in April. Along with Eric Kratz, will provide veteran depth/competition for Kyle Higashioka as backup to Gary Sanchez.
— Sweeny Murti (@YankeesWFAN) January 9, 2020

Moments later, things became official.

Chris Iannetta and Yanks have minors deal @YankeesWFAN on it
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) January 9, 2020

Iannetta will join the likes of Erik Kratz and Kyle Higashioka as depth options for the Yankees behind the plate.

The 36-year-old has spent time with the Rockies, Angels, Mariners and Diamondbacks across his 14 years in the big leagues. The former fourth-round pick posted a career slash line of .230/.345/.406 with 141 home runs and 502 RBI.

Last season in Colorado, Iannetta featured in 52 games, splitting time behind the plate with Tony Wolters. In 144 at bats, the veteran backstop hit six home runs and drove in 21 RBI, posting a .728 OPS.

C Chris Iannetta has a minor league deal with the #Yankees
— Frozen Rope (@rope_frozen) January 9, 2020

While Gary Sanchez will remain in his role as the team's starting catcher, Iannetta represents an experienced backup option to pick up some of the slack for the slugging 27-year-old, especially if the team gets less comfortable with Kyle Higashioka as the season approaches.