MLB Rookie Report: Alberto Rosario, C, St. Louis Cardinals

The St. Louis Cardinals promoted minor league catcher Alberto Rosario to the major league roster late last week. He's appeared in two games so far, going 2-for-4. Rosario isn't a household name as a prospect. Is there anything here of interest? Let's take a look.

Rosario was originally signed by the Los Angeles Angels from the Dominican Republic back in 2005. At the time he was viewed as a promising defensive catcher with a questionable bat. That's exactly how he's turned out. Through 663 minor league games, he's hitting .239/.290/.308, showing very little power and mediocre plate discipline, not a very good combination. The Cardinals picked him up as a minor league free agent in 2014. He was hitting .281/.323/.325 in 114 at-bats for Triple-A Memphis before his promotion, his best performance since he hit .304/.355/.401 in the California League back in 2010.

Rosario is a right-handed hitter, listed at 5-10, 190, born January 10, 1987. As his record implies he isn't a standout hitter, showing some contact ability yes but without power and with no real record of extended success outside the Cal League. He could probably hit .250 but without much OBP or SLG. Where he does stand out is with the glove: he's caught 41% of runners in his career and has steadily improved as a receiver.

Overall, he profiles as as defense-oriented reserve.