Phillies add veteran catcher Pinto to minor-league depth

The Philadelphia Phillies added catcher Pinto to their minor-league ranks with a contract signed Jan. 6, a move aimed at shoring up organizational catching depth. Pinto brings some big-league experience and a recent run of minor-league power that could pay dividends for the Phillies' pitching staff and farm system.

Pinto split time in the major leagues with the Tampa Bay Rays over parts of the 2022-2024 seasons, slashing .231/.263/.404 across those stints. After leaving the Rays, he spent 2025 in the minors, splitting the season between the Toronto Blue Jays and Arizona Diamondbacks organizations. Over 64 games last year he hit .259/.309/.498 and launched 12 homers, showing improved slugging and run-producing ability at the lower levels.

For the Phillies, the signing is a straightforward depth move. Pinto's résumé offers a blend of MLB seasoning and recent minor-league power that can help stabilize catching behind the club's primary options. A minor-league deal keeps the financial and roster risk low while giving Philadelphia a veteran backstop who can handle pitching staffs, soak up innings, and step in if injuries or slumps force a call-up.

This signing matters for Triple-A and organizational watchers more than for immediate big-league lineups. Pinto will compete for a role in the Phillies' minor-league system, and his performance in spring training and early camp will determine whether he becomes the first in line for a short-term promotion. His 12 homers in 64 games last season suggest he can provide occasional power, but his major-league on-base numbers indicate plate discipline remains an area to monitor.

Community-facing implications include pitching development and clubhouse mentorship. A veteran catcher who has worked in big-league environments can offer framing, game-calling continuity, and a steadying presence for younger pitchers and catchers trying to break through. For fans tracking depth charts, Pinto represents a practical insurance policy rather than a roster-altering acquisition.

Our two cents? Watch how Pinto performs in camp and early minor-league play; he won't headline the offseason, but he could be the dependable backstop you want in your pocket when the inevitable injuries or roster moves pop up.