Houston Astros' Gold Glove Utilityman Wins Arbitration Case
Houston Astros utility man Mauricio Dubon has won his arbitration case, according to Ari Alexander of KPRC 2 Houston. The Astros will pay him the $3.5 million salary that was submitted by Dubon. Houston was looking to pay him $3 million but lost the case.
The 24-year-old won a Gold Glove in 2023 after appearing in 132 games for Houston. He slashed .278/.309/.411 with 10 home runs. After struggling in the 2022 season, slashing just .208/.254/.294, Dubon figured it out at the plate.
The Astros made the move to acquire him during the 2022 season, trading Minor League catcher Michael Papierski to get it done. The deal was expected to add more depth to Houston's lineup as they were dealing with injuries to Jose Altuve and Jeremy Pena.
Dubon was acquired from the San Francisco Giants where he appeared in less than 75 games during his time there.
With the ability to play multiple positions, he adds a ton of value to the Astros. They don't have as much depth as they have in years past, which will allow Dubon to continue playing 100-plus games in a season.
The hope is that he will continue to produce at the level he did a season ago. If that is the case, he will earn consistent playing time just as he did in 2023. At worst, he can be a fourth outfielder and play nearly every infield position.
Spring Training is right around the corner and it would not be surprising to see the Astros make another move or two to improve their bench.
