O’s finalize deal with ‘key addition’ Castillo

BALTIMORE — The Orioles officially announced on Friday that they’ve signed catcher Welington Castillo to a one-year deal for next season with a player option for 2018.

The move, which ends the era of longtime backstop Matt Wieters (who is a free agent), fills one of the team’s primary holes this offseason.

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“He’s had a couple of really good defensive years; 2016 was really solid, [and a] couple years ago he had an excellent defensive year with the Cubs,” Orioles executive vice president of baseball operations Dan Duquette said of Castillo. “We are glad to add him to our club. He gives us a veteran catcher with a lot of experience.

“[Castillo] should be able to help us solidify the team and stabilize the ballclub with his throwing, catching ability, hitting and power. We are glad to have him. It was a key addition for our club — it’s something we’ve been looking for.”

The O’s targeted Castillo, who was non-tendered by Arizona, because of his experience and ability to help command a pitching staff. His offensive numbers didn’t hurt, either. Castillo hit .264 with 14 home runs and 68 RBIs in 113 games for the D-backs …

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