Max Stassi
YEARTEAMGABRHitsRBIDTHRBBSOSBCSEAVGOBPSLUG
2019Mudhens6421025312061624610010.1480.2690.271
2021Crushers84319597984933833581010.2480.3260.652
2022Crushers391322027208079510000.2050.2810.424
2023Crushers2687811901311351000.1260.2240.253
MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Jun 10 2024The White Sox announced that Stassi underwent a season-ending left hip surfacing procedure Friday in New York City. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After missing the entire 2023 season while he was a member of the Angels due to a hip injury in addition to a family medical issue, Stassi will now go another full season without logging any big-league action. The veteran catcher was able to make five rehab appearances at Triple-A Charlotte in April but had been shut down ever since due to a hip injury that apparently wasn't improving after nearly two months of rest. The White Sox hold a $7.5 million team option on Stassi for the 2025 season that the club will almost certainly decline this winter, if he isn't cut loose before then.
Apr 15 2024Stassi (hip) was transferred to the 60-day injured list by the White Sox on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The move clears a spot on the 40-man roster for Nick Nastrini. Stassi recently had a setback in his recovery from a hip injury when he was hit in the hand by a backswing while on a rehab assignment. He now won't be eligible to return until late May.
Apr 13 2024Stassi (hip) was hit on the hand by a backswing in a recent game and his projected return has been pushed back as a result, Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi was in the midst of a rehab assignment to return from a hip injury and was seemingly closing in on activation. His new injury isn't a fracture, so he may still not be far off from a return but his timeline is now up in the air. General manager Chris Getz has stated the team will not activate Stassi until he can catch back-to-back games.
Apr 2 2024Stassi (hip) reported to Triple-A Charlotte on Tuesday to begin a rehab assignment, Vinnie Duber of AllCHGO.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 33-year-old began the season on the injured list with a hip injury, but it appears he won't have a lengthy absence. Stassi could join the White Sox by the weekend if the rehab assignment goes well.
Mar 25 2024The White Sox placed Stassi on the 10-day injured list Monday with left hip inflammation, James Fegan of SoxMachine.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi missed the entire 2023 season because of a hip injury in addition to a serious family medical issue, and it would appear the hip problem is still nagging at him. Korey Lee will now open the season as Martin Maldonado's backup.
Mar 24 2024White Sox manager Pedro Grifol said Sunday that Stassi's availability for Opening Day is up in the air due to unspecified soreness, Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi sat out last season due to a hip injury and a serious family medical issue, and it's unclear if the current problem is related to his hip. Korey Lee is likely to begin the season as Chicago's backup catcher should Stassi require a trip to the injured list.
Dec 9 2023Atlanta traded Stassi (hip/personal) and cash considerations to the White Sox on Saturday in exchange for a player to be named later or cash. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi was traded from the Angels to Atlanta on Friday, but it was assumed Atlanta would quickly send Stassi elsewhere given the presence of Sean Murphy and Travis d'Arnaud. Stassi slashed .180/.267/.303 in 375 plate appearances in 2022, and he failed to appear in a game last season due to a hip injury and a serious family medical issue. Stassi's extended time away from baseball means he will have to compete for a spot on the White Sox's Opening Day roster, but a weak catcher room in Chicago keeps him in the running for the starting job.
Dec 8 2023Atlanta acquired Stassi (hip/personal) and David Fletcher from the Angels on Friday in exchange for Evan White (hip) and Tyler Thomas, Jeff Passan of ESPN.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The reigning NL East champs are already set at catcher with Sean Murphy and Travis d'Arnaud, so Stassi could quickly be flipped to another team -- assuming he's ready to resume his playing career. The 32-year-old did not appear in a game at any level in 2023 after suffering a hip injury late in spring training and then having to deal with a serious family medical issue.
Sep 3 2023The Angels placed Stassi (personal) on the restricted list Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi was initially placed on the 15-day injured list after suffering a hip injury late in spring training before he was transferred to the 60-day IL in June. Though the Angels have noted that Stassi is ostensibly healthy again and "in a position to resume activities," he's voluntarily choosing to sit out the remainder of the 2023 season while he tends to a serious family medical issue that has prompted him to conduct his rehab away from the team since the end of spring training. In 2024, Stassi will be entering the final season of the three-year, $17.5 million extension he signed with the Angels in May 2022, and Los Angeles also holds a $7.5 million club option and $500,000 buyout of his contract for the 2025 season.
Jun 10 2023Stassi (hip/personal) was transferred from the 15-day injured list to the 60-day injured list by the Angels on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi remains without a timetable to return while dealing with a hip injury and also a personal matter that has sidelined the backstop since the start of the season. This removes the backstop from the 40-man roster, and the Angels used that room to select the contract of Gerardo Reyes from Triple-A Salt Lake on Saturday.
May 13 2023Angels manager Phil Nevin told reporters Saturday that Stassi (personal/hip) remains without a timetable, but he has resumed participating in baseball activities and working out, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi has been out for the entirety of the 2023 season due to both a family issue as well as a hip injury that occurred just before Opening Day. The backstop has a chance to earn significant playing time when he does return to the Angels with several of their catchers dealing with injuries, but he may not return to Los Angeles until deeper into the summer.
May 2 2023Angels general manager Perry Minasian told reporters Tuesday that Stassi (personal/hip) remains without a timetable, Sam Blum of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi has missed the entirety of the 2023 season while dealing with a family issue as well as a hip injury he picked up right before Opening Day, and the team isn't sure when he might return. if and when he does rejoin the Halos, the veteran catcher has a chance to get reps for the Angels behind the plate with Logan O'Hoppe (shoulder) out for at least the next four months.
Mar 29 2023The Angels placed Stassi (hip) on the 10-day injured list Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: As anticipated, Stassi will begin the season on the IL while he recovers from the left hip strain he suffered while appearing in a minor-league spring training game last weekend. The Angels will have room for both Logan O'Hoppe and Matt Thaiss as the catching options on their Opening Day roster, though manager Phil Nevin hasn't specified whether the team will have the two work in a timeshare or have one serve as the primary option in Stassi's stead.
Mar 18 2023Stassi appears set to win the starting catcher job for the Angels despite hitting just .231 with a .615 OPS in 13 at-bats this spring, MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi looks set to begin the season as the starter with Matt Thaiss and
Sep 29 2022Stassi went 1-for-4 with a solo home run in Thursday's 4-2 win over the Athletics. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After getting a couple of nights off, Stassi got the start Thursday and capitalized with a solo home run in the eighth inning to extend the Angels' lead to 4-0. The long ball was Stassi's ninth on the season and first this month. He is slashing .182/.268/.307 through 100 games this season and should continue to be part of the Angels' catching rotation to close the season.
Sep 21 2022Stassi isn't starting Wednesday against the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi went 1-for-4 with two strikeouts Tuesday and will head to the bench for the third time in the last four games. Matt Thaiss will take over behind the plate and bat sixth.
Sep 19 2022Stassi is out of the lineup for Monday's game against the Mariners, Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After a recent string of three consecutive starts behind the dish, Stassi will sit for the second straight game while Matt Thaiss handles catching duties. Stassi still looks to be Option 1A for the Angels, but his major downturn in performance in 2022 could result in Thaiss becoming part of a timeshare at the position. After posting a .752 OPS last season, the 31-year-old Stassi is slashing .179/.267/.297 over his 352 plate appearances in 2022.
Sep 18 2022Stassi is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Mariners, Sarah Valenzuela of the Los Angeles Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi will take a seat after he caught each of the Halos' last three games while going 0-for-10 with five strikeouts in those contests. Matt Thaiss will spell Stassi behind the plate Sunday.
Sep 10 2022Stassi (undisclosed) went 0-for-3 with a walk, a run scored and three strikeouts in Saturday's 6-1 win over the Astros. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi didn't miss any additional time after leaving Friday's game for precautionary reasons. He's now 1-for-13 with four walks, five strikeouts, one RBI and two runs scored through five games in September. With Kurt Suzuki (bereavement) available again and Matt Thaiss still on the roster, playing time behind the dish for the Angels is likely to remain as a three-way timeshare.
Sep 9 2022Staassi was removed from Friday's game against the Astros for precautionary reasons. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's unclear exactly what type of injury Stassi is dealing with, but he was unable to go a full nine innings . His status will be updated when more information is available.
Sep 7 2022Stassi isn't starting Wednesday against the Tigers, Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi started the last two games and went 1-for-6 with an RBI. Matt Thaiss will take over behind the dish and bat eighth Wednesday.
Sep 4 2022Stassi is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Astros, Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi is 2-for-48 over his past 13 contests and will take a seat Sunday for the second time in the Angels' last three games. Chad Wallach will step in behind the plate and bat eighth.
Sep 2 2022Stassi is not in the Angels' lineup for Friday's game against Houston, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi has not been much of a threat at the plate this season, and his most recent cold spell -- he has a .374 OPS since the beginning of August -- hasn't helped him secure playing time. Instead, Matt Thaiss will serve as the Angels' catcher Friday.
Aug 30 2022Stassi went 1-for-3 with a two-run home run in Tuesday's 7-4 loss to the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi tied the game at 2-2 with a homer in the second inning, but the Yankees took the lead back in the top of the third. Playing time has gotten a little thin for Stassi lately, though it's been warranted, as he entered Tuesday in a 1-for-39 slump across his previous 10 games. That cold spell has dropped his slash line to .191/.277/.318 with eight homers, 26 RBI, 26 runs scored and 10 doubles through 85 contests this year. Stassi, Matt Thaiss and Kurt Suzuki have each started two of the Angels' last six games at catcher, which makes it difficult for any of them to carve out enough playing time to help fantasy managers.
Aug 29 2022Stassi isn't starting Monday against the Yankees, Sam Blum of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi has lost out on some playing time recently and will head to the bench for the fourth time in the last five games. Matt Thaiss is starting at catcher and batting eighth.
Aug 28 2022Stassi is out of the lineup for Sunday's game at Toronto, Erica Weston of Bally Sports West reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi is 1-for-39 with 14 strikeouts over his past 10 games and will head to the bench for Sunday's contest. Kurt Suzuki will take over behind the plate for the Halos.
Aug 26 2022Stassi will sit for the second straight game Friday against the Blue Jays, Erica Weston of Bally Sports West reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi is stuck in a 1-for-35 slump over his last five games. Kurt Suzuki started behind the plate Thursday, but it's Matt Thaiss who will get the nod this time around.
Aug 25 2022Stassi is not in the starting lineup Thursday against the Rays, Erica Weston of Bally Sports West reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi will get a breather after he went 0-for-9 with four strikeouts while starting the last two contests. Kurt Suzuki will replace him behind the plate and bat seventh in the series finale.
Aug 22 2022Stassi is out of the lineup for Monday's game against the Rays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi was behind the plate for the final two games of the Angels' weekend series in Detroit, but he was on the bench for consecutive games Wednesday and Friday while he works through a prolonged slump at the plate. He didn't take much of a meaningful step forward over the weekend by going 1-for-8, and he's now slashing .088/.139/.088 with a 27.8 percent strikeout rate over his last nine games. Kurt Suzuki will step in at catcher Tuesday and could work his way into a timeshare arrangement with Stassi if the latter's bat fails to heat up anytime soon.
Aug 19 2022Stassi isn't starting Friday against the Tigers, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi is in the midst of a slump in which he's gone 0-for-18 with two walks and eight strikeouts over his last five games. He'll be on the bench for a second consecutive matchup while Kurt Suzuki starts behind the plate and bats ninth.
Aug 17 2022Stassi isn't in the lineup Wednesday against the Mariners, Sam Blum of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi will retreat to the bench after he went 0-for-8 with five strikeouts over the last two games. Kurt Suzuki is starting behind the plate and batting sixth.
Aug 14 2022Stassi is not in the lineup for Sunday's game versus the Twins, Sarah Valenzuela of the Los Angeles Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi has a .589 OPS through 11 games in August and will take a seat Sunday after starting the past seven contests. Kurt Suzuki will work behind the plate and bat seventh in the series finale against Minnesota.
Aug 6 2022Stassi went 1-for-4 with a two-run home run in Friday's extra-inning win over Seattle. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi blasted a two-run shot in the top of the ninth inning to give the Angels a 3-0 lead. The long ball proved to be crucial, as Seattle came back for three runs in the bottom of the frame but ultimately lost in the 10th. The long ball was the second since the All-Star break for Stassi, who is slashing .256/.302/.513 with seven RBI and five runs over 12 second-half contests.
Aug 4 2022Stassi is out of the lineup for Thursday's game against the Athletics, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He'll take a seat as the Angels wrap up their series with Oakland with a matinee game, paving the way for Kurt Suzuki to get a turn behind the dish. Stassi went 1-for-3 with a double and a walk in Wednesday's 3-1 loss.
Jul 29 2022Stassi isn't starting Friday against Texas, Sam Blum of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi went 0-for-4 with a strikeout during Thursday's series opener and will be out of the lineup for the second time in the last three games. Kurt Suzuki is starting behind the plate and batting seventh.
Jul 27 2022Stassi isn't starting Wednesday against Kansas City, Sam Blum of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi started the last three games and went 4-for-13 with a homer, a triple, a double, four RBI, two runs and a strikeout. Kurt Suzuki is starting behind the plate and batting fifth Wednesday.
Jul 26 2022Stassi went 1-for-5 with a solo home run in Tuesday's 6-0 win over the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi provided some extra insurance with a solo shot in the ninth inning. The catcher has gone 5-for-16 (.313) with three extra-base hits since the All-Star break. For the season, he's slashing .212/.309/.350 with six homers, 20 RBI, 22 runs scored, eight doubles and a triple through 233 plate appearances. Stassi will likely continue to see most of the playing time behind the dish over veteran Kurt Suzuki.
Jul 24 2022Stassi went 3-for-4 with a triple, a double, three RBI, a run and a strikeout during Sunday's 9-1 win over Atlanta. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi sat out Saturday's matchup against Atlanta, but he returned to the lineup Sunday and helped propel the Angels to the blowout win during the series finale. The 31-year-old has four extra-base hits over his last nine games, hitting .281 with a homer, a triple, two doubles, seven runs and five RBI during that time.
Jul 23 2022Stassi isn't starting Saturday's game against Atlanta, Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi started Friday's series opener against Atlanta and went 1-for-3 with a walk and a strikeout. Kurt Suzuki will take over behind the plate and bat seventh Saturday.
Jul 15 2022Stassi isn't starting Friday's game against the Dodgers, Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi started the last four games and went 3-for-16 with a homer, four runs, two RBI, a walk and five strikeouts. Kurt Suzuki is starting behind the dish and batting eighth.
Jul 10 2022Stassi went 1-for-4 with a two-run homer and a strikeout during Sunday's 9-5 loss to the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi sat out twice in the last three games, but he helped to bring the Angels within four runs during the eighth inning Sunday. In spite of his sporadic playing time, he's recorded two extra-base hits over the last three games and has gone 3-for-9 with a homer, a double, three runs, two RBI and two walks during that time.
Jul 9 2022Stassi will sit Saturday against the Orioles, Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi sits for the second time in three days. He hasn't had much success at the plate recently, grabbing just two hits in his last 10 games. Kurt Suzuki will get the start at catcher.
Jul 7 2022Stassi isn't starting Thursday against the Orioles, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi went 1-for-7 with a double, a run, three walks and five strikeouts while starting in the last three games. However, Kurt Suzuki will take over behind the dish and bat ninth Thursday.
Jul 2 2022Stassi isn't in the lineup Saturday against the Astros, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi started in the last two games and went 0-for-5 with four strikeouts. Kurt Suzuki is starting behind the dish and batting seventh Saturday.
Jun 28 2022Stassi is not in Tuesday's lineup against the White Sox, Sam Blum of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi is hitting .185 with zero home runs, 20 strikeouts and 11 walks in 22 games this month. Kurt Suzuki will start behind the dish and hit seventh.
Jun 25 2022Stassi isn't in the lineup Saturday against the Mariners, Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi drew starts in the last three matchups and went 2-for-12 with an RBI, a walk and five strikeouts. Kurt Suzuki is starting behind the plate and batting seventh Saturday.
Jun 20 2022Stassi isn't starting Monday's game against the Royals, Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi will get a breather after he went 1-for-7 with a double, an RBI, a walk and a strikeout over the last two games. Kurt Suzuki is starting behind the plate and batting seventh.
Jun 18 2022Stassi isn't starting the first game of Saturday's doubleheader against the Mariners, Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi went 2-for-8 with three strikeouts over the last two games and will be out of the starting nine for the second time in the last four matchups. Kurt Suzuki is starting behind the plate and batting seventh.
Jun 15 2022Stassi is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Dodgers, Sam Blum of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi has started four of the past five games and will receive Wednesday off. Kurt Suzuki will start behind the plate and bat seventh.
Jun 12 2022Stassi will sit Sunday against the Mets, Sam Blum of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi hasn't started more than three consecutive games at any point this season. He was in the lineup for each of the Angels' last three contests, so it's not surprise to see Kurt Suzuki take over behind the plate here.
Jun 8 2022Stassi is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi is 1-for-7 with a double, a walk and an RBI through the first two games of the series and will received Wednesday off. Kurt Suzuki will work behind the dish and bat eighth.
Jun 2 2022Stassi isn't starting the second game of Thursday's doubleheader against the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi will get a breather after he went 0-for-3 with a walk and a strikeout in Thursday's matinee. Kurt Suzuki will start behind the plate and bat seventh in the second game of the twin bill.
Jun 1 2022Stassi is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Yankees, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After starting behind the plate in three of the Angels' last four games, Stassi will get a rest day while Kurt Suzuki takes over catching duties. Stassi closed out May with a .256/.333/.419 slash line to go with two home runs, seven runs and five RBI, but he was limited to just 12 games on the month due to a stint on the COVID-19-related injured list.
May 29 2022Stassi went 4-for-5 with a home run and three RBI in Sunday's 11-10 loss to the Blue Jays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi's two-run single tied the game at 6-6 in the third inning, and he added a solo shot in the seventh for the Angels' last run. Sunday's big game gave the catcher three multi-hit efforts in his last five contests since returning from the COVID-19 injured list. He's up to a .250/.330/.417 slash line with four homers, 11 RBI, 14 runs scored and a pair of doubles through 24 games this season.
May 28 2022Stassi will sit Saturday against Toronto, Sam Blum of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi started three of the first four games after returning from the COVID-19 injured list at the start of this week. Kurt Suzuki will take over behind the plate Saturday.
May 25 2022Stassi isn't starting Wednesday against the Rangers, Mike DiGiovanna of the Los Angeles Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi returned to the lineup Tuesday against Texas and went 2-for-4 with a double, a run and a strikeout. Kurt Suzuki will start behind the plate and bat seventh Wednesday.
May 23 2022Stassi (illness) was reinstated from the COVID-19 injured list Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi spent just under two weeks on the IL, and he'll rejoin the Angels after going 3-for-8 with a homer, a double, two runs, two RBI and two strikeouts over two rehab games at Single-A Inland Empire. The 31-year-old should serve as the Angels' primary catcher now that he's back to full health.
May 20 2022Stassi (illness) will begin a rehab assignment at Single-A Inland Empire on Saturday, Sam Blum of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi has been on the COVID-19 injured list for a week and a half and said that he felt sick for three or four days last week. However, he rejoined the Angels on Friday and participated in workouts. He expects to play in at least two rehab games, and it seems likely that the backstop will be activated from the injured list early next week.
May 10 2022Stassi (undisclosed) was placed on the COVID-19 injured list Tuesday, Sam Blum of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi was held out of the lineup Monday against the Rays and will now join fellow catcher Kurt Suzuki (undisclosed) on the COVID-19 IL. It's unclear if either player has tested positive for the virus, but the Angels are without their top two catchers regardless. Austin Romine was called up in a corresponding move and should split reps behind the plate with Chad Wallach.
May 9 2022Stassi will sit Monday against the Rays, Sam Blum of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi sits after starting five of the last six games, something he didn't do at any point in April. Chad Wallach will take over behind the plate.
May 4 2022Stassi went 1-for-4 with a two-run home run and two runs in the win over the Red Sox on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The catcher homered off Garrett Whitlock in the top of the fifth inning, driving in Jared Walsh in the process. Stassi later scored on a Taylor Ward long ball in the 10th frame. The 31-year-old is now up to three homers on the year, adding eight RBI and 10 runs scored over 55 at-bats.
May 2 2022Stassi is out of the lineup for Monday's game against the White Sox, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Angels are wrapping up their four-game set in Chicago with a day game, so Stassi will take a seat while No. 2 backstop Kurt Suzuki makes his second start in three days. With a single in Sunday's 6-5 win, Stassi extended his hit streak to four games and is now sitting on a .229 batting average for the season.
Apr 30 2022Stassi will sit Saturday against the White Sox, Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi remains the No. 1 catcher in Anaheim, though not by a particularly wide margin. He's made 13 starts behind the plate this season, while Saturday's starter, Kurt Suzuki, has made nine.
Apr 26 2022Stassi will sit Tuesday against Cleveland, Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi hits the bench for the second time in the last three games. He's gotten off to a decent start at the plate this season, hitting .222/.333/.417 in 11 games. Kurt Suzuki will catch for Patrick Sandoval in Stassi's absence.
Apr 24 2022Stassi is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Orioles, Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi is receiving some routine maintenance after he went a combined 1-for-10 with a walk and a run scored while starting each of the past three games at catcher. Kurt Suzuki will replace Stassi at catcher in the series finale, forming a battery with southpaw starter Jose Suarez.
Apr 19 2022Stassi will sit Tuesday against Houston, Sam Blum of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi has hit .250/.357/.542 with a pair of homers through seven games, though his 35.7 percent strikeout rate is a potential worry. He'll get a rest Tuesday as Kurt Suzuki takes over behind the plate.
Apr 17 2022Stassi is not in the lineup for Sunday's game at Texas, Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi will head to the bench for the second time in the past three games. Kurt Suzuki will work behind the plate in his place during Sunday's series finale.
Apr 15 2022Stassi isn't in the lineup for Friday's game against Texas. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi started in each of the last three games and went 3-for-10 with a homer, three runs, three RBI and three walks. Kurt Suzuki will start behind the dish and bat eighth.
Apr 14 2022Stassi went 2-for-5 with a two-run home run in a 10-5 loss Thursday in Texas. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After striking out in his first two plate appearances, Stassi singled in the sixth and hit a two-out, two-run homer in the eighth. The catcher hit sixth in the lineup and produced his best hitting game of the young season. The 31-year-old has now started five of the first seven games at catcher for the Halos.
Apr 12 2022Stassi went 1-for-1 with three walks and scored twice in a 6-2 win over Miami on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi helped ignite the Angels' offense by getting on base in each of his four plate appearances. The backstop entered the contest having gone 1-for-6 on the season but boosted his OBP to .500 with the patient performance Monday. Stassi has started behind the plate in three of the team's first five contests to begin the campaign.
Apr 10 2022Stassi is not in the lineup Sunday against the Astros, Mike DiGiovanna of the Los Angeles Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 31-year-old started behind the plate Opening Day for the Halos, but he and Kurt Suzuki have now alternated starts through the first four games of the season. Stassi should work as the Angels' primary catcher in 2022, but he's splitting time with Suzuki early in the campaign.
Apr 8 2022Stassi will sit Friday against the Astros, Mike DiGiovanna of the Los Angeles Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi started behind the play on Opening Day but will hit the bench for the second game of the season. That could signal that Stassi will be used less frequently than other starting catchers this year, or it could simply be a way to ease him into a heavier regular-season workload. Kurt Suzuki will catch Reid Detmers in his absence.
Mar 24 2022Stassi signed a three-year extension worth $17.5 million with the Angels on Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi and the Angels avoided arbitration after agreeing to terms on a one-year deal worth $3 million Tuesday. He was set to become a free agent at the close of the 2022 campaign, though he should now be in line for significant playing time behind the dish for the next several seasons. Stassi has posted 136 and 107 wRC+ marks in the last two seasons, respectively, so he has some offensive punch relative to the position.
Mar 22 2022Stassi signed a one-year, $3 million deal with the Angels on Tuesday, Mark Feinsand of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The agreement allows the two sides to avoid arbitration. He's coming off a solid season which saw him hit .241/.326/.426 with 13 homers in 87 games, though his 31.7 percent strikeout rate creates some risk heading into the upcoming season.
Oct 3 2021Stassi is on the bench for Sunday's game against the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Kurt Suzuki catches and bats cleanup in the regular-season finale. Stassi, barring a plate appearance Sunday, slashed .241/.326/.426 with 13 home runs and 35 RBI in 2021.
Oct 1 2021Stassi isn't starting Friday against the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi went 0-for-5 with two strikeouts Thursday and will head back to the bench as he continues to alternate starts behind the dish. Kurt Suzuki will start at catcher and bat cleanup.
Sep 29 2021Stassi isn't in the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi went 1-for-3 with a two-run homer and a strikeout in Tuesday's series opener, but he'll retreat to the bench for the second time in the last three games. Kurt Suzuki will start behind the dish and bat cleanup.
Sep 26 2021Stassi is not in the lineup for Sunday's game against the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 30-year-old backstop gets an afternoon off after going 0-for-3 with a pair of walks Saturday and hitting .179 with three RBI in his last 10 games. Kurt Suzuki starts behind the dish.
Sep 25 2021Stassi went 2-for-3 with a home run and three RBI in Friday's 6-5 loss to the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi slammed a two-run home run off Logan Gilbert in the fourth inning to put the Angels on the board. In addition, he drove in Jack Mayfield on a sixth-inning single. It was Stassi's first long ball since Aug. 19, and since that date he's batting .174. On the season, the catcher is slashing .251/.334/.434 with 12 home runs, 33 RBI and 43 runs scored in 302 plate appearances.
Sep 23 2021Stassi is not in the lineup Thursday against the Astros. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi has started each of the Angels' last two games, during which he's collected one hit and one walk across eight plate appearances. Kurt Suzuki will take over behind the dish and hit seventh in Stassi's place.
Sep 20 2021Stassi is not in the lineup Monday against the Astros. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi started the past two games and will receive a day to reset after going 0-for-7 with a walk and six strikeouts. Kurt Suzuki will work behind the plate for the Halos.
Sep 17 2021Stassi is not in the Angels' lineup Friday against the Athletics, Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi drew the start behind the plate Thursday and went 1-for-4 with a walk and two runs scored. Kurt Suzuki has alternated starts with Stassi behind the plate for much of September and will take over behind the plate and hit sixth Friday.
Sep 15 2021Stassi is not in the lineup Wednesday against the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi hasn't started back-to-back games since Sept. 5 and 6, and that trend will continue after going 1-for-3 with a walk and two strikeouts Tuesday. Kurt Suzuki will work behind the plate for the Halos.
Sep 12 2021Stassi is on the bench for Sunday's game against the Astros, Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 30-year-old backstop takes a seat after going hitless in his last four games. Kurt Suzuki is catching and batting eighth Sunday.
Sep 10 2021Stassi isn't starting Friday's game against the Astros, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi went 0-for-4 with a strikeout in Wednesday's loss to San Diego and will be on the bench for the second time in the last three games. Kurt Suzuki will start behind the plate and bat seventh.
Sep 7 2021Stassi isn't in the lineup Tuesday against the Padres, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi started each of the last two games but went 0-for-6 with a run and two strikeouts. Kurt Suzuki will start at catcher and bat sixth.
Sep 4 2021Stassi will sit Saturday against the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi sits for the first time in a week. He still owns a strong .818 OPS on the season, but he's hit just .175/.246/.302 over his last 18 games, striking out in 42 percent of his plate appearances. Kurt Suzuki will take over behind the plate.
Aug 28 2021Stassi is out of the lineup Saturday against the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi has a .583 OPS and 39.7 percent strikeout rate through 18 games in August, and he'll take a seat Saturday for the second time in the past three days. Kurt Suzuki will work behind the plate and bat seventh in his place.
Aug 26 2021Stassi isn't starting Thursday against the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi recorded extra-base hits in each of his last two appearances, and he went 3-for-8 with two doubles, three runs and an RBI during that time. He'll get a breather while Kurt Suzuki starts behind the plate and bats fifth.
Aug 20 2021Stassi will be on the bench for Friday's game in Cleveland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi hits the bench after making a pair of starts. He's been in a bit of a slump over his last nine games, going 4-for-32 with 17 strikeouts. Kurt Suzuki takes over behind the plate in his absence.
Aug 17 2021Stassi is not starting Tuesday against Detroit, Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi enters the contest in a 2-for-22 skid at the plate. He'll take a seat for the second time in three games with Kurt Suzuki set to catch Dylan Bundy and bat eighth.
Aug 15 2021Stassi is not in the lineup Sunday against the Astros. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi started the first two games of the series and will receive a breather in the finale. Kurt Suzuki will take over behind the plate for the Halos.
Aug 13 2021Stassi (forearm) is starting at catcher and batting cleanup Friday against the Astros, Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He missed one game after getting hit on the arm by a pitch Wednesday, but it was apparently a minor bruise. Stassi is hitting .277/.351/.508 with four home runs in 18 games since the All-Star break.
Aug 12 2021Stassi (forearm) is not in Thursday's lineup, but is feeling better since being hit by a pitch Wednesday, Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The team seemed to strike an optimistic tone regarding Stassi's injury, as manager Joe Maddon said he may be available as a defensive replacement off the bench Thursday. Stassi also took swings in the cage prior to the game, Daniel Guerrero of MLB.com reports. Despite the optimism, it remains unclear whether Stassi will be able to return at some point during the team's weekend series against the Astros, or if he will be forced to the injured list. Kurt Suzuki is drawing the start behind the plate and batting ninth Thursday.
Aug 11 2021Stassi had X-rays on his left forearm come back negative after being hit by a pitch during Wednesday's game against the Blue Jays, Daniel Guerrero of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi went 0-for-2 with a pair of strikeouts before being hit by a pitch during the sixth inning an exiting the contest. The 30-year-old should be considered day-to-day since he appears to have avoided a serious injury.
Aug 10 2021Stassi is out of the lineup for Game 2 of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Blue Jays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi went 1-for-4 in Game 1, and it's not a surprise he won't be starting both ends of the twin bill. Kurt Suzuki will start behind the plate in the nightcap for Los Angeles.
Aug 7 2021Stassi is not in the lineup for Saturday's game against the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Even after an 0-for-4, two-strikeout performance Friday, Stassi is still hitting .351 with eight RBI in his last 10 games. Kurt Suzuki is catching and batting fifth Saturday.
Aug 4 2021Stassi is out of the lineup Wednesday against the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi started the past three games and will receive a breather while in the midst of an eight-game hit streak. He's gone 12-for-30 with three homers, a double, a triple, seven RBI and five runs during that stretch. Kurt Suzuki will work behind the plate in his place.
Aug 1 2021Stassi went 2-for-4 with a two-run home run in Sunday's 8-3 loss to the Athletics. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi homered off Daulton Jefferies in the first inning to give the Angels a 2-0 lead. In addition, he added a single in the ninth inning. The catcher is slashing .310/.385/.555 with 10 long balls, 24 RBI and 30 runs in 174 plate appearances this season. He is 10-for-22 with three homers over his last six games. His consistency to get on base has earned him the cleanup spot in the batting order.
Jul 31 2021Stassi will be on the bench for Saturday's game against Oakland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi is riding a five-game hitting streak, a stretch in which he's homered twice and driven in five runs. Kurt Suzuki starts behind the plate in his absence.
Jul 29 2021Stassi went 1-for-3 with a solo homer and a walk in Wednesday's 8-7 win over the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi led off the fifth with a solo blast to center to put the Angels up 7-3. It was his second home run over his last three games and his fourth overall this month. The 30-year-old is enjoying a nice July, slashing .347/.418/.673 with four homers, nine RBI, eight runs scored and 4:14 BB:K over 14 games. Stassi should continue to see the bulk of the work behind the plate for the Angels, with Kurt Suzuki starting occasionally as the backup catcher.
Jul 27 2021Stassi is out of the lineup Tuesday against the Rockies, J.P. Hoornstra of the Los Angeles Daily News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi started the past three games and will receive a maintenance day Tuesday. Kurt Suzuki will work behind the plate in his place.
Jul 25 2021Stassi went 3-for-4 with a home run, a triple and three RBI in Sunday's 6-2 win over the Twins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi slammed a solo home run in the fifth inning off Bailey Ober. Prior to Sunday, Stassi was batting just .167 over his last seven days. He nearly doubled his weekly hit total, reaching base safely three times. The catcher is slashing .299/.377/.526 with eight long balls, 20 RBI and 28 runs scored in 154 plate appearances.
Jul 23 2021Stassi is out of the lineup Friday against the Twins, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi started the last two games and will receive the day off Friday. Kurt Suzuki will catch for Alex Cobb and bat fifth in his absence.
Jul 19 2021Stassi is out of the lineup Monday against the Athletics, Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi is 3-for-8 with a solo homer and an additional run scored in two games since the All-Star break, and he'll take a seat Monday. Kurt Suzuki will catch for Shohei Ohtani for the matchup in Oakland.
Jul 17 2021Stassi is not in Saturday's lineup against the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He started the second half off with a bang, going 2-for-4 with a home run Friday. Stassi is hitting .322/.402/.578 with six home runs in 90 at-bats since the start of June. Kurt Suzuki will start behind the dish and bat seventh.
Jul 11 2021Stassi is not starting Sunday against the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi went hitless across six at-bats during the first two games of the series. He'll hand the catching duties to Kurt Suzuki for the series finale.
Jul 7 2021Stassi isn't starting Wednesday's game against the Red Sox, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi will get a breather after he went 3-for-4 with a home run, a double, two runs and two RBI in Tuesday's win over the Red Sox. Kurt Suzuki will take his place behind the plate and bat sixth.
Jul 4 2021Stassi is out of the lineup Sunday versus Baltimore, Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi went 3-for-7 with an RBI, a walk and a run over the first two games of the series and will receive the day off Sunday. Kurt Suzuki will fill in behind the plate and bat seventh.
Jun 30 2021Stassi is not in the starting lineup Wednesday against the Yankees, Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi will get a breather after catching the first two games of the series in the Bronx. Kurt Suzuki will catch Shohei Ohtani and bat seventh Wednesday.
Jun 27 2021Stassi is not in the starting lineup against the Rays on Sunday, Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Kurt Suzuki will handle the catching duties as Stassi gets a rest during the series finale.
Jun 23 2021Stassi is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Giants, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi is likely receiving a breather with the Giants and Angels wrap up their two-game set with a day game after a night game. Kurt Suzuki will catch for starting pitcher Shohei Ohtani on Wednesday.
Jun 21 2021Stassi went 3-for-4 in Sunday's loss to Detroit. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: All three of the backstop's hits were singles and none resulted in any runs, but the performance was another promising one during a month in which Stassi has racked up six multi-hit efforts. In June, he is slashing .391/.472/.739 with four homers, 11 RBI and 15 runs over 14 games. The big month has pushed his season average to an impressive .333.
Jun 19 2021Stassi is not in the starting lineup Saturday against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi will get a breather after working behind the plate during the previous two games. Kurt Suzuki will start at catcher and bat eighth Saturday.
Jun 15 2021Stassi is not in the lineup Tuesday at Oakland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi has a 1.297 OPS with four homers, four doubles, 10 RBI and 13 runs in 11 games since returning from the injured list June 1, but he'll receive the day off Tuesday. Kurt Suzuki will start behind the plate in his place.
Jun 14 2021Stassi went 1-for-4 with a two-run homer in Sunday's 10-3 win over the Diamondbacks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi launched a two-run homer to give the Angels an early 2-0 lead in the first. It was his fifth home run of the season and his fourth this month. The 30-year-old came into Sunday slashing .448/.484/.897 with seven extra-base hits in June before adding the home run. His overall slash line for the season stands at .339/.397/.645 with five home runs, 11 RBI and 16 runs scored. Stassi's high production at the moment likely isn't sustainable but he should be rostered mostly everywhere given the lack of depth at the catcher position.
Jun 11 2021Stassi is not in the starting lineup Friday against the Diamondbacks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi will get a chance to rest his legs after starting the previous three games behind the plate. Kurt Suzuki will catch Shohei Ohtani and bat seventh Friday.
Jun 9 2021Stassi went 2-for-4 with a two-run home run and an additional run scored in Tuesday's 8-1 win over the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi took Kris Bubic deep in the third inning Tuesday. The catcher has homered in each of his last three games that he started. He was rewarded by batting cleanup for the first time this year. The 30-year-old has been hot since coming off the injured list June 1, with nine hits in his last 19 plate appearances. He is slashing .333/.396/.625 with four homers, eight RBI and 12 runs in just 14 starts this season.
Jun 7 2021Stassi went 3-for-4 with a two-run home run, an additional RBI and two additional runs in Monday's win over the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi was the Angels' biggest offensive threat, as he recorded a team high in hits, RBI and runs scored while hitting in the fifth spot of the order. The backstop has hit safely in four of his last five games, posting two multi-hit contests and two homers in that span.
Jun 6 2021Stassi is not in the starting lineup Sunday against the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi sat during Friday's game before going 2-for-5 with a homer as Saturday's starter. He'll retreat to the bench in favor of Kurt Suzuki on Sunday.
Jun 5 2021Stassi went 2-for-5 with a home run, two runs, an RBI and two strikeouts in a 12-5 win over Seattle on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi's fourth inning solo home run was Los Angeles' first of 11 straight runs after falling behind 5-1 and triggered a big comeback win. He has a hit in three straight starts since returning from injury and is now slashing .275/.356/.450 in 14 games.
Jun 4 2021Stassi isn't starting Friday's game against the Mariners, Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi had started each of the last two games, and he went 2-for-6 with a double, an RBI, a run and two walks. Kurt Suzuki will start behind the plate and bat fifth.
Jun 2 2021Stassi went 1-for-4 with a double, an RBI and a run in Wednesday's win over the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The backstop emerged from a long layoff due to a concussion and played his first game since May 4. In the fourth inning, he banged a run-scoring double to right field and subsequently came around to score on a bases-loaded walk. Stassi figures to regain his role as the Angels' primary catcher moving forward.
Jun 1 2021Stassi (concussion) was reinstated from the 7-day injured list Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi recently completed his four-game rehab assignment and will return from the injured list after he missed just under a month. He'll likely reclaim his role as the Angels' primary catcher going forward.
May 25 2021Stassi (concussion) is expected to begin a rehab assignment this week and could rejoin the active roster next week, Mike DiGiovanna of the Los Angeles Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 30-year-old has been sidelined by a concussion since early April, but he recently resumed baseball activities and could soon rejoin the Halos. Drew Butera and Kurt Suzuki should continue to split time behind the plate until Stassi is fully cleared.
May 23 2021Stassi (concussion) has begun participating in baseball activities, Mike DiGiovanna of the Los Angeles Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manager Joe Maddon indicated that Stassi is "feeling a lot better, very optimistic and upbeat" after missing more than two weeks due to a concussion. The backstop will likely require a brief minor-league rehab stint before rejoining the big club, DiGiovanna notes.
May 18 2021Stassi (concussion) reported feeling much better Sunday but remains without an exact target date for a return, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi appears to be inching closer to a return, but manager Joe Maddon noted the unpredictable nature of concussions when explaining why the backstop's activation date remains unclear. Stassi has not played since May 4.
May 15 2021Stassi (concussion) has been throwing but has yet to be activated off the seven-day IL, Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A timeframe has yet to be given for Stassi's return, but he appears to be making progress from the concussion he suffered earlier in May. The backstop will likely resume his role as the team's primary catcher when he's ready to return.
May 10 2021Stassi (concussion) is feeling better but does not yet have a clear timeframe for a return, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi went on the seven-day injured list May 6 after running into a stanchion during a game and subsequently exhibiting concussion symptoms. He spoke to manager Joe Maddon before Monday's contest but remains without a definite return date.
May 6 2021Stassi was placed on the seven-day injured list with a concussion Thursday, Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi ran into a stanchion trying to track down a foul ball on Tuesday, but remained in the game. However, he was out of Wednesday's lineup so Tuesday's play could be the cause of his stint on the injured list. During Stassi's absence, Kurt Suzuki should serve as the team's primary backstop.
May 5 2021Stassi is not in the lineup Wednesday against the Rays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi is 1-for-13 in his last four appearances and will take a seat Wednesday. Kurt Suzuki will take over behind the plate for Los Angeles.
May 3 2021Stassi will sit Monday against the Rays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi started three of the Angels' last four games after returning from a thumb injury Wednesday. Kurt Suzuki starts behind the plate Monday.
Apr 30 2021Stassi isn't starting Friday's game against the Mariners, Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi returned to the field Wednesday and went 0-for-3 with a pair of strikeouts. Kurt Suzuki will start behind the plate and bat ninth.
Apr 28 2021Stassi (thumb) was activated from the 10-day injured list and is starting at catcher and batting ninth Wednesday against the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi hit .375 with one home run in 16 at-bats prior to landing on the IL. He should once again assume a fairly even playing time split with Kurt Suzuki. Anthony Bemboom was sent back down in a corresponding move.
Apr 25 2021Stassi (thumb) will come off the injured list "any day now" according to manager Joe Maddon, Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi went on the 10-day IL on April 13 after spraining his left thumb. He's eligible to return to action and could do so as soon as Monday. He'll likely resume his role as the Angels' primary catcher upon his activation.
Apr 22 2021Stassi (thumb) is traveling with the Angels on their current road trip and could be close to returning to action, Taylor Blake Ward of Locked on Angels reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi is eligible to come off the injured list Friday, and it looks like he may not be far from a return. The veteran backstop hasn't played since April 12, when he left a game against the Royals with left thumb irritation. Kurt Suzuki has been filling in as the primary catcher for the Angels in Stassi's stead.
Apr 18 2021Stassi (thumb) hasn't resumed any catching workouts since landing on the 10-day injured list April 13, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi is eligible to return from the IL on Friday, but based on where he currently stands in his recovery, he looks like he'll need a little more time to heal up from his injury. Kurt Suzuki is expected to serve as the Angels' primary catcher for the duration of Stassi's absence.
Apr 13 2021Stassi was placed on the 10-day injured list Tuesday with a left thumb sprain. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: X-rays on his thumb came back negative Monday, but Tuesday's MRI revealed a sprain. Anthony Bemboom was recalled to serve as the second catcher while Kurt Suzuki steps into the primary role.
Apr 12 2021Stassi got X-rays on his left thumb Monday, and the results turned out negative, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi departed Monday's game against Kansas City with left thumb irritation, but the initial follow-up X-rays returned favorable results. The Angels' top backstop is slated for an MRI on Tuesday.
Apr 10 2021Stassi isn't starting Saturday's game against the Blue Jays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi went 1-for-3 with a run, one walk and one strikeout in Friday's win over the Blue Jays, but he'll take a seat for the second time in the last three games. Kurt Suzuki will start at catcher and bat eighth Saturday.
Apr 8 2021Stassi isn't starting Thursday's game against the Blue Jays, Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi has gone 4-for-11 with a solo home run and two strikeouts this year but will sit out for the third time in the last five games. Kurt Suzuki will start at catcher Thursday, batting eighth.
Apr 5 2021Stassi isn't starting Monday's game against the Astros. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi went 1-for-2 with two walks in Sunday's win over the White Sox, but he'll take a seat for Monday's series opener against Houston. Kurt Suzuki will start behind the dish, batting eighth.
Apr 3 2021Stassi will sit Saturday against the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi started behind the plate in both of the first two games of the season, going 2-for-6 with a homer. Kurt Suzuki will make his season debut Saturday.
Mar 13 2021Stassi started at catcher in Friday's Cactus League game versus Arizona, playing four innings and drawing a walk in his only plate appearance. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi has been working his way back from the hip surgery he underwent last October, and he was consequently limited to DH duty prior to Friday. Now that he has returned to the field, Stassi should have adequate time to prepare for his role as the Angels' primary catcher this season.
Mar 11 2021Stassi (hip) could start at catcher within the next couple days, Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He's started at designated hitter twice in the last week, most recently on Wednesday, but Stassi's hip injury has prevented him from starting behind the dish. It sounds like that could change this weekend. In the meantime, Kurt Suzuki has been serving as the primary catcher.
Mar 6 2021Stassi (hip) is expected to see his first spring action behind the plate early next week, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: While Stassi has yet to play the field this spring, he has logged two at-bats as DH, striking out each time. The 29-year-old underwent hip surgery last October and was not guaranteed to be ready for the start of the 2021 campaign, but it now appears that he has a good chance of being behind the plate for the Angels on Opening Day.
Mar 5 2021Stassi (hip) will bat eighth as the designated hitter Friday against Oakland, Shayna Rubin of The San Jose Mercury News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi has been slightly delayed to start camp after undergoing hip surgery in October. He's been participating in full workouts, however, and he should be ready to catch soon assuming he gets through Friday's at-bats without setbacks.
Mar 3 2021Stassi (hip) is participating in full workouts and could get into a Cactus League game soon, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi is still recovering from the hip surgery he underwent following the 2020 season, but he appears close to ready to returning to game action. As long as his debut isn't delayed much longer, the 29-year-old should have adequate time to gear up for Opening Day. Stassi is expected to serve as the Angels' primary catcher in 2021.
Feb 18 2021Stassi (hip) is ramping up slowly to begin camp but is expected to be ready for Opening Day, Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi underwent surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left hip in October. Once he's fully ready to go, he'll split time in some capacity with Kurt Suzuki. Exactly how the time will be split remains to be seen. Stassi hit an excellent .278/.352/.533 in 105 plate appearances last year, but he came nowhere close to that in 486 trips to the plate prior to 2020, hitting just .204/.285/.326.
Jan 15 2021Stassi (hip) signed a one-year, $1.6 million contract with the Angels on Friday, avoiding arbitration, Robert Murray of FanSided.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi will double the $800,000 contract he signed in January of 2020. The raise is well-earned, as he's coming off a year in which he hit .278/.352/.533, albeit in a small sample of 105 plate appearances. He appears set to split time behind the plate in 2021 with Kurt Suzuki, who was signed as a free agent Friday.
Oct 14 2020Stassi recently underwent surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left hip. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 29-year-old had a strong 2020 campaign with a .278/.352/533 slash line and seven homers in 31 games, and it wasn't known he was dealing with the injury until undergoing an MRI at the close of the season. The typical return game is 4-to-6 months, so if his recovery timeline goes on the long end of that spectrum, he may not be ready for the start of the 2021 season.
Sep 27 2020Stassi is not in the lineup for Sunday's game against the Dodgers, Maria Torres of the Los Angeles Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Anthony Bemboom will take over behind the plate as Stassi sits for the Angels' final game of 2020. Stassi had a great showing, offensively, in 105 plate appearances around a knee injury and projects to open 2021 as the primary catcher barring any offseason additions.
Sep 23 2020Stassi is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi will receive a breather one day after turning in his best game of the season in Tuesday's 4-2 win, during which he went 4-for-4 with two home runs and three RBI. Anthony Bemboom will draw the starting nod behind the dish Wednesday, but Stassi should be back as the Angels' starting catcher in Friday's series opener against the Dodgers.
Sep 22 2020Stassi went 4-for-4 with a pair of home runs and three RBI to lead the Angels to a victory over San Diego on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi supplied most of the offense in the 4-2 win, smashing a solo homer in the second inning and slugging a two-run shot in the sixth. The performance gives him seven long balls on the season, just one shy of his career-high mark set in over 150 fewer at-bats with Houston two seasons ago. Stassi's four-hit game also helped him raise his batting average 37 points to .293.
Sep 21 2020Stassi went 2-for-4 with two RBI and a run scored in Monday's 8-5 victory over the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi picked up an RBI after grounding into a double play in the second inning, and he plated a run in the fourth on a single to left field. The backstop is putting together a solid season by his standards, slashing .256/.344/.462 with five homers and 17 RBI through 27 contests. He finished with a .136/.211/.167 line through 51 games a season ago.
Sep 20 2020Stassi is not in the lineup Sunday against Texas, Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi started the first two games of the series but will take a seat after going 0-for-6 with four strikeouts and a walk. Anthony Bemboom will catch for Julio Teheran on Sunday.
Sep 17 2020Stassi is out of the lineup Thursday against the Diamondbacks, Maria Torres of the Los Angeles Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi started the past four games and receives the day off after going 5-for-14 with one homer, one double, three RBI and three walks. Anthony Bemboom takes over behind the plate for the Halos.
Sep 16 2020Stassi went 3-for-4 with a two-run home run and a double in Wednesday's loss against Arizona. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi dealt with an injury that kept him out for around two weeks and only returned from the injured list earlier this month. The 29-year-old catcher posted his first three-hit performance of the season and has now hit safely in his last three appearances while boosting his average to a respectable .265 with a .854 OPS. This was his fifth homer of the season.
Sep 11 2020Stassi is not in the lineup Friday against Colorado. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi went 0-for-2 with a sacrifice fly and a walk Thursday and will take a seat for Friday's contest. Anthony Bemboom will start behind the plate in the series opener.
Sep 9 2020Stassi is not in the lineup Wednesday at Texas, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi started the past two games after returning from the injured list over the weekend, and he'll receive the day off Wednesday. Anthony Bemboom takes over behind the plate for the Angels.
Sep 7 2020Stassi went 2-for-3 with a walk and scored twice in a victory over Houston on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi was activated from the injured list Sunday and immediately slotted into the sixth spot in the batting order. He produced a pair of singles and crossed the plate twice to help the Halos to their fifth straight win. With Jason Castro now in San Diego, Stassi figures to get the bulk of playing time at backstop over the final month of the season. He's enjoying a productive year, slashing .271/.357/.878 with four home runs in 56 plate appearances.
Sep 6 2020Stassi (quadriceps) was activated from the 10-day injured list Sunday, Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A foul ball off Stassi's right knee put the skids on the catcher's hot start -- he has an .838 OPS and four homers through 18 games. His track record says it's fluky, but the playing time should be there at least. Stassi figures to take over as the Angels' primary catcher with Jason Castro traded and Jose Briceno sent down.
Aug 31 2020Angels manager Joe Maddon said Monday that Stassi (quadriceps, knee) is "somewhat close" to being activated from the 10-day injured list, but the skipper was unwilling to put a target date on the catcher's return, Maria Torres of the Los Angeles Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi is recovering from a right quad strain and a bruised right knee, injuries he sustained when he fouled a ball off himself in an Aug. 20 game. His absence looms larger after the Angels traded top catcher Jason Castro to the Padres on Sunday, so journeyman Anthony Bemboom looks poised to serve as the team's primary option behind the dish until Stassi is ready to go. Based on Maddon's comments, Stassi seems likely to remain out at least until the weekend.
Aug 21 2020Stassi (knee) was placed on the 10-day injured list Friday, Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi took a foul ball off the knee Thursday and suffered a right knee contusion that forced him out of the contest. The injury is serious enough to warrant a stay on the injured list, and it's unclear whether he'll have to spend longer than the minimum of 10 days sidelined. Jason Castro could see the bulk of the action at catcher if he's fully healthy, but Anthony Bemboom could see a slight uptick in playing time as well.
Aug 20 2020Stassi left Thursday's game against the giants with a right knee contusion. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi exited after taking a ball off his knee while catching in the second inning. He was replaced by Anthony Bemboom. X-rays on Stassi's knee came back negative, although it isn't known if he'll be forced to miss any time beyond Thursday.
Aug 16 2020Stassi will start at catcher and will bat eighth Sunday against the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi, who is batting .243 with four home runs and 10 RBI on the season, will get a third straight start while top backstop Jason Castro deals with a neck injury. The Angels are viewing Castro as day-to-day for now, but if he fails to demonstrate any notable progress heading into Monday's series opener with the Giants, the veteran could be at risk of landing on the injured list.
Aug 6 2020Stassi went 1-for-3 with a home run and three RBI in Thursday's win over Seattle. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi plated the Angels' fourth run of the game with a sacrifice fly in the fourth inning and provided a pair of insurance runs with a homer to left field in the eighth. The long ball was the fourth of the season for Stassi, tied for first among major-league catchers. The 29-year-old is already halfway to his career-high total of eight homers established in 2018.
Jul 30 2020Stassi went 1-for-3 with a two-run home run in Thursday's 8-5 loss to the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi finally put the Angels on the board with his fifth-inning blast against Mariners starter Marco Gonzales. The catcher has now homered in each of his last two starts, accounting for all five of his RBI this season. Stassi will continue to split time with Jason Castro behind the dish.
Jul 29 2020Stassi went 1-for-3 with a walk and a three-run home run in Tuesday's 10-2 win over the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This was Stassi's first home run in 23 games with the Angels dating back to last season. The 29-year-old has reverse splits for his career and in fact has struggled mightily against southpaws (.186/.256/.311), but the Angels value Stassi's pitch-framing skills and seem intent on working him in against lefties. Jason Castro is the starter against right-handed pitching.
Apr 6 2020Stassi is locked in as the Angels' No.2 catcher due largely to his ability to frame pitches, Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Angels have emphasized pitch-framing in recent seasons because of the boost it can give to their pitching staff. As such, the team employs two of the league's top pitch-framers in Stassi and Jason Castro. While Stassi has yet to attain a primary catcher role in the big leagues, he ranks 11th in pitch-framing among backstops who have caught at least 1,000 innings over the last four years, per FanGraphs.
Mar 6 2020Stassi (hip) is starting behind the plate and batting sixth in Friday's Cactus League game versus the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 28-year-old has previously served as a designated hitter in spring games, but his return to defensive action indicates he's been fully cleared from offseason hip surgery. Stassi is expected to compete with Anthony Bemboom for the backup catching job in spring training.
Mar 1 2020Stassi (hip) is no longer listed in the starting lineup for Sunday's split-squad game versus the Rockies, Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi was initially set to bat second as the designated hitter but isn't included in the updated lineup, though he's still listed as an available bench player on the lineup card. There's been no reports of a setback as he continues to recover from offseason hip surgery, so the reason for the lineup change remains unclear.
Feb 25 2020Stassi (hip) is slated to appear in Tuesday's Cactus League game against the Reds as a designated hitter. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Based on the information the Angels provided on their lineup card, Stassi is set to replace Shohei Ohtani midway through the contest for what will mark the 28-year-old's spring debut. Stassi has been eased into workouts this spring while recovering from offseason hip surgery, but he's expected to be ready to go for Opening Day. He'll likely see some action behind the plate in Cactus League games within the next week or two.
Feb 22 2020Stassi (hip) is on track to be healthy for Opening Day, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi underwent right hip surgery in the offseason, but he is currently in camp and has been taking batting practice as well as participating in catching drills. The 28-year-old is expected to compete for a backup role behind newly acquired Jason Castro.
Jan 9 2020Stassi (hip) signed a one-year, $800,000 contract with Los Angeles on Thursday, Mark Feinsand of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi and the Angels will avoid arbitration by settling on a one-year deal. It remains unclear if he'll be ready for Opening Day after undergoing hip surgery in September, likely giving Jason Castro and Anthony Bemboom a leg up on the competition.
Nov 11 2019Stassi (hip) may not be ready to go by Opening Day, Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi underwent a hip procedure in late September that was expected to keep him out for 4-to-6 months. The back end of that window should have had him ready to go right around Opening Day, but he appears to be potentially a bit behind schedule since his availability for the start of the season is now in doubt.
Sep 24 2019Stassi will undergo right hip surgery next week and will need 4-to-6 months to recover, Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Kevan Smith and Anthony Bemboom will handle the catching duties over the final games of the season. Stassi hit .136 with one home run in 147 plate appearances this year. This surgery could affect his availability for the start of spring training.
Sep 21 2019Stassi saw a specialist Friday to address his sore oblique, Maria Torres of the Los Angeles Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi has been out since Sept. 3 with the injury. Although he recently indicated that he is feeling better, the decision to consult a specialist suggests that the 28-year-old is not close to a return. With the regular season rapidly coming to an end, there is a strong chance that Stassi will not play again in 2019.
Sep 16 2019Stassi (oblique) is improving but has not been cleared to play, Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi indicated that he is feeling better but there remains no set timeframe for his return. The 28-year-old has been out since Sept. 3 while recovering from a sore oblique.
Sep 10 2019Stassi (side) remains out of the lineup Tuesday against the Indians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi has not appeared in a game since Sept. 3. He's been nursing a side injury and it's not clear when he's expected back. Kevan Smith and Anthony Bemboom have been splitting time behind the plate in Stassi's absence.
Sep 8 2019Stassi is dealing with a side issue and will be evaluated Monday, the Associated Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi has sat out the last five games while nursing the unspecified side issue. The Angels return home Monday, at which point the 28-year-old will be further examined. Stassi has only three hits in 42 at-bats since being acquired from Houston at the trade deadline.
Sep 6 2019Stassi is not in the lineup for Friday's game against the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi will ride the pine for the third straight contest as the Angels continue to utilize a three-man rotation behind the plate. Anthony Bemboom receives the starting nod and will hit ninth Friday.
Sep 4 2019Stassi will be on the bench Wednesday against Oakland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stassi appears to be at the head of a three-man catching committee at the moment, starting five of the last nine games. Anthony Bemboom gets the nod behind the plate on this occasion.
Aug 23 2019Stassi isn't starting Friday's game against the Astros.
Aug 20 2019Stassi is out of the lineup for the first game of Tuesday's doubleheader with the Rangers, Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register reports.
Aug 18 2019Stassi is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the White Sox.
Aug 16 2019Stassi is not in the lineup for Friday's game versus the White Sox.
Aug 14 2019Stassi is not in the lineup against the Pirates on Wednesday.
Jul 31 2019Stassi was sent from the Astros to the Angels in exchange for Rainier Rivas and Raider Uceta on Wednesday, Mark Feinsand of MLB.com reports.
Jun 21 2019Stassi (knee) was activated off the 10-day injured list Friday, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 20 2019Stassi (knee) played a second straight day while on rehab at Double-A Corpus Christi on Wednesday, signaling an imminent return to the roster, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 18 2019Manager AJ Hinch told MLB Network Radio on SiriusXM<\/a> on Tuesday that Stassi (knee) would shift his rehab assignment from Triple-A Round Rock to Double-A Corpus Christi.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 11 2019Stassi (knee) will start a rehab assignment with Triple-A Round Rock on Thursday, Jake Kaplan of The Athletic<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 3 2019Manager AJ Hinch suggested Sunday that Stassi could report to extended spring training this week to begin rehabbing his left knee injury, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 26 2019The Astros placed Stassi (knee) on the 10-day injured list Sunday, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 26 2019The Astros placed Stassi (knee) was placed on the 10-day injured list Sunday, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 25 2019Stassi was removed from Saturday's game against the Red Sox with left knee discomfort, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 22 2018Stassi is out of the lineup Sunday against the Angels.It's a routine rest for Stassi, who started at catcher and went 2-for-7 with a run scored during the first two games of the weekend. Tim Federowicz will serve as the batterymate for Houston starter Lance McCullers in the series finale.
Jul 14 2018Stassi is out of Saturday's starting lineup against the Tigers.Stassi will get the day off after going 2-for-6 with two strikeouts over his last two starts. Tim Federowicz is slated to bat ninth and take over the catching duties in his place.
Jul 11 2018Stassi is out of Wednesday's starting lineup against the Athletics.Stassi will take a seat after going 3-for-13 with one double and two RBI over his last four games. Tim Federowicz is slated to handle the catching duties and bat eighth.
Jul 9 2018Stassi is out of Monday's lineup against the A's.He is hitting .194/.306/.355 with two home runs in 21 games (62 at-bats) since the start of June. Tim Federowicz will start behind the dish and hit ninth.
Jul 7 2018Stassi went 3-for-5 with a double and two RBI on Saturday against the White Sox.Stassi drove in the first and last runs of the game for the Astros to record his fourth multi-RBI game of the season. He should continue to see regular duty behind the plate for the Astros thanks to the absence of Brian McCann, though he provides limited production across most categories and has only four extra-base hits since June 16.
Jul 7 2018Stassi went 3-for-5 with a double and two RBI Saturday against the White Sox.Stassi drove in the first and last runs of the game for the Astros to record his fourth multi-RBI game of the season. He should continue to see regular duty behind the plate for the Astros thanks to the absence of Brian McCann, though he provides limited production across most categories and has only four extra-base hits since June 16.
Jul 5 2018Stassi (forearm) is not expected to miss significant time, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports.Stassi was held out Wednesday after taking a pitch off his right forearm Tuesday. Manager A.J. Hinch is hoping to play Stassi "in the next day or so" as the Astros kick off a home series with the White Sox on Thursday. In the meantime, Tim Federowicz will fill in as the primary catcher while Evan Gattis is the backup.
Jul 5 2018Stassi (forearm) is back in the lineup against the White Sox on Thursday.Stassi will handle the catching duties and bat eighth in the order. He was forced to miss Wednesday's game after getting struck by pitch on his right forearm Tuesday. Over 49 games this year, he's hit .255/.340/.482 with seven home runs and 22 RBI.
Jul 4 2018Stassi (hand) is not in the lineup for Wednesday's game against Texas, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports.Stassi will remain on the bench after leaving Tuesday's contest following a hit by pitch on his right hand in the first inning. He should be considered day-to-day ahead of Thursday's series opener versus the White Sox.
Jul 3 2018Stassi will be the Astros' starting catcher for at least four to six weeks with Brian McCann undergoing knee surgery, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reports.Stassi's fantasy stock should shoot up, at least in the short term, as any everyday player in the Astros' lineup will have plenty of opportunities to drive in runs and be driven in by his teammates. The 27-year-old had been slowly carving out a larger role, starting five of the last eight games behind the plate. He's outhit McCann so far this season, posting a .255/.335/.482 line compared to .206/.283/.323 for his veteran teammate, so if he continues to impress in a full-time role he has a shot to keep the job for the rest of the year.
Jul 3 2018Stassi left Tuesday's game against the Rangers after being hit by a pitch on his right hand, Julia Morales of AT&T SportsNet Southwest reports.Stassi was hit in his first at-bat during the top of the first inning and briefly stayed in to run the bases, but was replaced behind the plate by Tim Federowicz for the bottom of the frame. The 27-year-old was diagnosed with a right hand bruise after X-rays came back negative, and he is currently considered day-to-day.
Jun 17 2018Stassi went 2-for-4 with a three-run homer in Saturday's win over the Royals.Stassi's sixth inning homer off of Danny Duffy busted the game open, putting the Astros up 7-2 while helping chase the southpaw. The backup catcher has now collected at least one hit in four straight games and is batting a solid .264/.336/.512 with seven homers through 40 games this season. If Stassi continues to produce in his limited opportunities, he could start to carve out a bigger role for himself at the expense of starter Brian McCann, who is hitting just .209/.299/.349 this season.
Jun 9 2018Stassi will be the starting catcher Saturday, Hunter Atkins of the Houston Chronicle reports.Starting backstop Brian McCann was activated off the disabled and played Friday, so he'll get a break Saturday. Stassi could also start Sunday with the Rangers scheduled to throw the left-handed Matt Moore. Stassi is crushing southpaws this season with a 1.030 OPS.
Jun 9 2018Stassi went 1-for-3 with a solo home run and two runs scored Saturday against the Rangers.Stassi got a chance to start with the Astros giving Brian McCann a day off after he returned from the disabled list Friday. Stassi took advantage by hitting his sixth home run of the season, this one coming against left-hander Mike Minor. That continued Stassi's trend of crushing left-handed pitching, as he entered Saturday's game with a .595 slugging percentage against them in 42 at-bats this season.
Jun 1 2018Stassi, who was given the day off Thursday, will catch the next three games, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports.Stassi has become the primary starter behind the plate after Brian McCann (knee) was placed on the 10-day disabled list. While the playing time was somewhat equitable when Stassi and McCann were sharing the job, Stassi is expected to get a significant share of the at-bats at catcher with Tim Federowicz up from Triple-A Fresno to replace McCann. Now might be a good time to look at Stassi for fantasy lineups, as he's riding a seven-game hitting streak, in which he's gone 9-for-26 with three doubles, two home runs and knocked in seven runs.
May 30 2018Stassi will take on a bigger role after the Astros placed Brian McCann on the disabled list with soreness in his right knee, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. In the first game as Houston's primary catcher, he went 1-for-5 in Tuesday's 6-5 loss to the Yankees.Manager A.J. Hinch confirmed that Stassi will take on the majority of the workload behind the plate with McCann unavailable. The 27-year-old catcher, who ranks fourth among rookies with an .879 OPS, has made himself into a better hitter and defender. "(He) has swung the bat probably better than we even expected, given that he's been predominantly a soft platoon/backup player or backup catcher," Hinch said. "It's hard to contribute consistently in that role so I've been very happy with that. His receiving has gotten so much better over the last year or two and we're seeing it impact pitchers, seeing it impact balls and strikes, and that's a tribute to the work he's put in." Tim Fedorowicz was called up from Triple-A Fresno to provide some insurance, but his lack of familiarity with the starters will limit his opportunities.
May 30 2018Stassi went 2-for-4 with a home run, double and three RBI in Wednesday's 5-3 loss to the Yankees.Stassi provided all of Houston's offense in this one, smacking a two-run homer in the fifth before tacking on an RBI double in the ninth off closer Aroldis Chapman. With Brian McCann (knee) on the disabled list, Stassi is set to take on the primary catching responsibilities in his stead. Even with the injury to McCann, Stassi has earned his playing time, slashing .303/.367/.562 through the opening two months.
May 28 2018Stassi went 1-for-6 with a solo home run in Sunday's 10-9 extra-inning loss to the Indians.Stassi has been surprisingly effective with bat in hand this season, hitting .300 with four homers and 14 RBI through 80 at-bats (29 games). Behind the plate, Stassi's catcher ERA of 2.72 is second only to teammate Brian McCann's 2.57. Stassi has handled Houston's elite starting staff well while holding his own at the plate.
May 23 2018Stassi went 2-for-3 with a walk, a double, an RBI and two runs scored in Tuesday's 11-2 win over the Giants.Stassi was one of three members of the Astros' lineup -- Tony Kemp and J.D. Davis the others -- to have faced San Francisco's rookie left-hander Andrew Suarez in Triple-A, so he had some knowledge going in. In three minor-league appearances against Suarez, Stassi had two home runs, so it's no surprise he contributed offensively. It's also no surprise because Stassi's mashed against left-handers this season. Tuesday's two-hit effort raised his season average against southpaws to .519 (14-for-27) with a 1.382 OPS.
May 9 2018Stassi went 2-for-4 with a solo home run in Wednesday's win over the Athletics.The solo shot -- Stassi's third homer of the year -- knotted up the score at 1-1 in a game Houston would eventually go on to win 4-1. The catcher is now hitting .273 and has multi-hit efforts in two straight, but he doesn't see regular enough at-bats to warrant much consideration outside of deeper leagues.
Apr 19 2018Stassi went 2-for-3 with a home run, three runs scored and an RBI on Thursday against the Mariners.Stassi hit his second home run of the season, this one coming off Marc Rzepczynski in the seventh inning. He has gotten 29 at-bats as the primary backup catcher to Brian McCann and shown flashes of power in his limited opportunities. However, he has also struck out in over 30 percent of his plate appearances. Due to his sporadic opportunity and production, he is only rosterable in deep AL-only leagues.
Apr 8 2018Stassi went 1-for-3 with a three-run home run in Sunday's 4-1 win over the Padres.Stassi's fifth-inning bomb snapped Houston's streak of 29-plus innings without an extra-base knock. The catcher, who revamped his swing last season to hit more flyballs, is 6-for-15 with two doubles, a home run and five RBI over six games (four starts).
Apr 1 2018Stassi started Sunday and went 2-for-3 with a double, an RBI and a run scored in an 8-2 victory over Texas.Stassi has started two of Houston's first four games, so early on it's looking like he'll get a significant amount of plate appearances as Brian McCann's backup. And it doesn't hurt that Stassi has come out hitting. The 27-year-old has reached base safely and driven in runs in both games.
Mar 31 2018Stassi went 1-for-4 with a double and knocked in a run in Friday's 5-1 loss to the Rangers.The Astros had chances Friday -- they were 1-for-9 with runners in scoring position -- but only Stassi broke through with a man in scoring position. Stassi, who will be the primary backup to the 34-year-old Brian McCann, got the call for the second game of the season. McCann's unlikely to get much more than 100 starts, so Stassi's in line for a significant amount of plate appearances. His framing and game-calling have improved, so there are no qualms about having him on the field. If he maintains any semblance of offense -- manager A.J. Hinch raved about his improvement at the plate during training camp -- Stassi could be a pleasant sleeper at catcher.
Mar 24 2018Stassi, who was informed Friday he made the team, will be the primary backup to starter Brian McCann, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports.Manager A.J. Hinch said Stassi would catch more games than Evan Gattis, who will be the third catcher and the primary designated hitter. McCann is entering his age-34 season and last season played his fewest games since his rookie year. That suggests Stassi's role has potential to lead to significant plate appearances.
Mar 23 2018Stassi was told that he made the Astros' roster, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports.Stassi will be the team's third catcher, but with backup Evan Gattis spending a lot of time as a designated hitter, he'll have plenty of opportunities to play. As a righty, he could start often against southpaws over the left-handed Brian McCann. Stassi has received brief call-ups in each of the last five seasons, compiling a .253/.318/.405 line in 89 plate appearances. He hit .266/.383/.473 with 12 homers in 73 games for Triple-A Fresno last season. His presence in a loaded Houston lineup could pad his counting stats, but he's unlikely to play often enough or well enough to be much of a factor in most fantasy leagues.
Mar 8 2018Stassi appears ahead of Tim Federowicz in the battle for the Astros' third catcher job, for now, Hunter Atkins of the Houston Chronicle reports.Manager A.J. Hinch is calling it a "fierce battle" for the third catcher spot. Stassi is out of option, and the Astros seems happy with his improved athleticism and work with the starting staff in camp, but they are not guaranteeing him anything. Last year, Stassi was passed over for Juan Centeno when the Astros needed to call up a catcher, but Stassi hit .338/.430/.613 against lefties at Triple-A and would make for a logical replacement for Brian McCann behind the plate against southpaws, with Evan Gattis at DH.
Feb 17 2018Stassi is looking to claim the final available roster spot, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports.With little drama in spring training of the World Series champs, we're left watching the one available spot for a position player. Does manager A.J. Hinch keep a third catcher, like Stassi, or an extra infielder/outfielder, such as Tyler White or Tony Kemp. Stassi's out of options, so he'll need to clear waivers if Houston wants him at Triple-A Fresno. That gives him an edge, but Hinch would feel more comfortable if Stassi continues to hit as he did in 2017 for the Grizzlies (12 HR, .856 OPS). Having a third catcher on the roster allows Hinch the flexibility to deploy Evan Gattis as the designated hitter. But it all comes down to Stassi's offense.
Nov 25 2017Stassi is the frontrunner to be the backup catcher to Brian McCann in 2018, Jake Kaplan of the Houston Chronicle reports.The 26-year-old Stassi has served as the organization's primary catcher at the Triple-A level the last four seasons, first at Oklahoma City and then at Fresno. He's coming off his best season at Triple-A, hitting 12 home runs with an .856 OPS. To be generous, his major-league track record is too small of a sample size (79 at-bats), but his career numbers in the minors don't suggest a productive hitter in MLB. That could present a problem should McCann's career trajectory continue on the same path. The 33-year-old catcher, who had 349 at-bats in 2017, has seen fewer at-bats in successive seasons since 2014.
Sep 4 2017Stassi (hand) was activated from the 10-day disabled list Monday.Stassi was sidelined for just over the minimum amount of time with left hand inflammation and was cleared to return after a successful three-game rehab assignment with Double-A Corpus Christi. With Brian McCann's top backup at catcher, Evan Gattis (wrist), on track to return from the DL by the weekend, Stassi and Juan Centeno won't be in store for much work behind the plate -- if any -- before the season concludes.
Sep 3 2017Stassi (hand) will be activated from the 10-day disabled list Monday, Jake Kaplan of the Houston Chronicle reports.Stassi wrapped up a three-game rehab assignment Friday with Double-A Corpus Christi, during which he recorded four hits -- including two home runs -- in nine at-bats. Suffice to say, his left hand doesn't appear to be presenting any issues and shouldn't impact his availability when he rejoins the Astros, though it's unlikely Stassi will see much usage behind No. 1 catcher Brian McCann.
Aug 29 2017Stassi (hand) will begin a minor-league rehab assignment with Double-A Corpus Christi on Tuesday, Julia Morales of AT&T SportsNet Southwest reports.A hand injury landed Stassi on the disabled list last week, but the ailment doesn't appear to be anything overly serious as he's already set to begin a minor-league rehab stint. Barring any setbacks, it's looking like Stassi may be ready for activation when first eligible Sept. 4. When he does return, he isn't expected to see much playing time with Evan Gattis and Brian McCann splitting duties behind the dish.
Aug 25 2017Stassi landed on the 10-day DL with left hand inflammation prior to Friday's game against the Angels.It's not clear as to when Stassi injured his hand, but the 26-year-old will spend some time on the shelf while recovering from this minor injury. With the return of Evan Gattis (concussion) in a corresponding move, it's unlikely that Stassi will see too much time on the field during the rest of the season, but he will likely serve as the third catcher upon his return.
Aug 23 2017Stassi went 1-for-2 with a solo homer and two walks in Wednesday's 6-1 win over the Nationals.Stassi's just 3-for-14 this season, but two of his hits have left the yard. The catcher also has an impressive 1:3 K:BB over that span, and should continue to get a sizable chunk of playing time with Houston battling the injury bug behind the plate.
Aug 16 2017Stassi went 2-for-4 with a solo home run, two RBI and two runs scored in Tuesday's 9-4 win over Arizona.Stassi, whose contract was recently selected from Triple-A Fresno, made his first start since joining the major league team, facing Arizona left-hander Anthony Banda. He showed a modicum of power in the minors, having hit 32 home runs over two-plus seasons at Fresno. The 26-year-old catcher should be in the lineup most nights when the Astros face a left-hander, serving as the right-handed hitting complement in a platoon with Juan Centeno. With both Brian McCann (knee) and Evan Gattis (concussion) on the disabled list, it's up to Stassi and Centeno to manage the pitching staff.
Aug 14 2017Stassi has his contract purchased from Triple-A Fresno on Monday, Jake Kaplan of the Houston Chronicle reports.With Brian McCann (knee) and Evan Gattis (concussion) both on the shelf, Stassi will get a shot with the big club. He's slashing .266/.383/.473 with 12 homers in 241 at-bats for Fresno this season. He'll serve as the backup for Juan Centeno until Gattis or McCann return, but he should see his share of chances before he is dropped from the roster again.
Jan 25 2017Stassi suffered a concussion in October while playing winter ball in the Dominican Republic, Jake Kaplan of the Houston Chronicle reports.Stassi entered last season as the team's backup catcher, but a broken left wrist in March derailed his season. With just a total of 256 at-bats (13 in the majors), he tried to make up for lost time during winter ball, but that lasted just two games after a batter clipped him on the head on his backswing and was diagnosed with a concussion. He said he's healthy and ready for spring training, but is third on the depth chart behind Brian McCann and Evan Gattis. If neither of those two suffer a significant injury, Stassi, who is out of minor league options, will have to pass through waivers to remain in the organization.
Sep 5 2016Stassi was recalled from Triple-A Fresno on Monday, MLB.com reports.Stassi will rejoin the Astros to provide depth at the catching position, but his playing time will likely be limited behind Evan Gattis and Jason Castro.
May 12 2016Stassi was optioned to Triple-A Fresno following Thursday's game, Jake Kaplan of the Houston Chronicle reports.Stassi was called up for a few days while Jason Castro was on paternity leave, but he will head back to Triple-A with Castro set to rejoin the team Friday. Stassi will garner consideration next time the Astros decide to bring up a catcher from the minors.
May 11 2016Stassi will start at catcher and bat eighth in Wednesday's series finale against Cleveland.Recalled to the majors Tuesday, Stassi will get his first start behind the plate for the Astros this season. Erik Kratz will take a seat on the bench while starter Jason Castro (paternity) remains away from the team.
May 10 2016Stassi was recalled to the majors Tuesday.Jason Castro was placed on the paternity list earlier in the day, so Stassi will come up to serve as catching depth. He's just 2-for-14 at the Triple-A thus far this year, so he'll likely serve as Erik Kratz's backup while Castro is away.
May 8 2016Stassi (wrist) was activated from the 15-day DL and was optioned to Triple-A Fresno on Sunday, Angel Verdejo of the Houston Chronicle reports.Stassi had been on a rehab assignment with Fresno, so he'll just remain in the minors with the Astros content to stick with Jason Castro and Erik Kratz as their two backstops. During his three-game rehab stint, Stassi went 2-for-11 with five strikeouts.
May 3 2016Stassi (wrist) will join Triple-A Fresno on Tuesday, Angel Verdejo Jr. of the Houston Chronicle reports.Manager AJ Hinch indicated Stassi will play every other day, so it looks as though the club will play it cautiously with the catcher after suffering a fracture in the spring. It remains to be seen whether he'll stay in the minors or join the major league club once healthy, but he'll likely need a decent length rehab after sitting out six weeks.
Sep 23 2014Stassi went 1-for-4 with a double during Monday's loss to the Rangers.Stassi's seventh inning double was the first extra-base hit of his major league career.
Sep 9 2014Stassi will make his first start of 2014 on Wednesday, Evan Drellich of the Houston Chronicle reports.Stassi will assume the backstop duties Wednesday with Nick Tropeano, a pitcher he's familiar with from Triple-A Oklahoma City, scheduled to make his MLB debut. Stassi logged eight big league plate appearances with the Astros last September before a concussion ended his season.
Sep 1 2014Stassi will be recalled by the Astros on Tuesday when rosters expand, Evan Drellich of the Houston Chronicle reports.Stassi will be the third string catcher for the Astros behind Jason Castro and Carlos Corporan, meaning he likely won't see enough reps to warrant much fantasy consideration this season. The 23-year-old has hit .247/.296/.378 with nine homers over 101 games in the minors this year.
Mar 10 2014Stassi was optioned to the Astros' minor league camp Monday, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports.Stassi will likely report to Triple-A Oklahoma City after spending much of 2013 at Double-A Corpus Christi. Carlos Corporan will open 2014 as the backup to starter Jason Castro, with Stassi only an injury to one of those two away from a promotion to Houston.
Sep 23 2013Stassi was activated from the 7-day concussion DL on Monday.After he was hit by a pitch in the shoulder and face on Aug. 21, Stassi has been working himself back from a diagnosed concussion. Because he's joining three other healthy catchers, the rookie will be hard-pressed to garner many plate appearances during the final week of the season.
Sep 6 2013Stassi (concussion) was transferred to the 15-day DL on Thursday.Stassi is still in the midst of working his way back from a concussion and remains without a definitive return timetable. It might make sense for the Astros to have him rest up for spring training with three healthy catchers already on the active roster.
Aug 23 2013Stassi (face) was placed on the 7-day disabled list by the Astros on Friday, CSN Houston reports.Stassi is recovering from a scary incident in which he was hit by a pitch in the shoulder and face. He did have any fractures, but he was placed on the concussion disabled list following further tests. There is no timetable yet for his return.
Aug 22 2013Stassi received X-rays and a CAT scan Thursday, revealing no facial fractures.Stassi isn't out of the clear yet, as he'll still be subjected to concussion tests later in the day in Houston. However, the fact that he won't require major surgery on his face is surely a promising sign after he was dripping blood upon being hit with a pitch Wednesday night.
Aug 21 2013Stassi was removed from Wednesday's game after taking a pitch to the shoulder and face area.It was an unfortunate way for Stassi to get his first career RBI, as the hit by pitch came with the bases loaded for the young catcher. He'll likely undergo X-rays to determine the extent of the injury.
Aug 20 2013Stassi will have his contract selected from Double-A Corpus Christi, as he will join the Astros for Tuesday's game in Texas, MLB.com's Brian McTaggart reports.Stassi, who arrived in the Astros' organization during the offseason following a trade with the Athletics, has put together a fine offensive campaign in 2013. He padded his stat line nicely by batting .333 with 11 long balls and 24 RBI in 24 outings in July, which earned him Player of the Month honors for the Hooks. Expect him to take the 25-man roster spot of Carlos Corporan, who seems to be headed for the 7-day DL after possibly suffering a concussion Monday.
Aug 20 2013Stassi started at DH on Tuesday and went 2-for-3 with a couple singles in his big-league debut against the Rangers.He was called up from Double-A after catcher Carlos Corporan was put on the seven-day concussion DL. Judging from Tuesday's debut and his numbers in Double-A, Stassi could be a capable bat when he plays. He made a bit of a baserunning blunder after his first big league hit in the fifth, when he wandered off second base after an errant throw went off Elvis Andrus' glove, thinking he was already out, only to be tagged by Ian Kinsler.
Aug 20 2013Stassi started at DH Tuesday and went 2-for-3 with a couple singles in his big-league debut against the Rangers.He was called up from Double-A after catcher Carlos Corporan was put on the seven-day concussion DL. Judging from Tuesday's debut and his numbers in Double-A, Stassi could be a capable bat when he plays. He made a bit of a base-running blunder after his first big league hit in the fifth, when he wandered off second base after an errant throw went off Elvis Andrus' glove, thinking he was already out, only to be tagged by Ian Kinsler.
Aug 20 2013Stassi will be called up from Double-A Corpus Christi for Tuesday's game in Texas, MLB.com's Brian McTaggart reports.Stassi, who arrived in the Astros' organization during the offseason following a trade with the Athletics, has put together a fine offensive campaign in 2013. He padded his stat line nicely by batting .333 with 11 long balls and 24 RBI in 24 outings in July, which earned him Player of the Month honors for the Hooks. Expect him to take the 25-man roster spot of Carlos Corporan, who seems to be headed for the 7-day DL after possibly suffering a concussion Monday.
Mar 3 2013Stassi, who underwent surgery for a sports hernia on Thursday, returned to camp Saturday and was understandably moving around slowly, according to the team's official site.He's expected to be out of action for six to eight weeks, all but ruling out a return by Opening Day. Stassi was acquired from the A's in last month's Jed Lowrie trade.
Mar 1 2013Non-roster invitee Max Stassi announced via Twitter his surgery Thursday went well and he hopes to be active by Opening Day.The catcher was acquired last month in the deal that sent Jed Lowrie to Oakland. He's had a couple of injuries in his short career, so seeing him healthy and on the playing field will be key.
Feb 28 2013Stassi had successful sports hernia surgery Thursday, the Houston Chronicle's Brian T. Smith reports.Stassi is expected to have a timetable for returning with the next few days. Look for him to start the season at Double-A Corpus Christi or possibly High-A Stockton.