Alyson Footer from the Houston Astros PR department is reporting that the Astros have signed catcher Chris Snyder. The deal will include a mutual option for the 2013 season.
Snyder has been in the big leagues since 2004 when he broke in with the Arizona Diamondbacks. He played with the DBacks until 2010, when he was traded to the Pittsburgh Pirates. He spent most of last season on the 60 day disabled list.
Snyder has a career slash line of .271/.376/..396 with 70 career home runs and 273 RBI. His career WAR is 7.5. The Astros current depth chart has Jason Castro listed as the starting catcher. In 67 games played, Castro has a slash line of .205/.286/.287. They will likely compete in spring training for the starting catcher position.
Snyder's injury was lower back tightness, but it seems like he will be ready for the start of the season. He is represented by LSW Baseball.