You may not recognize the name Hank Conger. A backup catcher on a division-leading team doesn’t get a lot of recognition. However, in the city of Houston, Conger is one of the most valuable members of the Astros.
Conger was acquired this offseason from the Los Angeles Angels. The former first-round pick was a highly ranked prospect in the Angels system. He spent the first five seasons with the Angels and displayed excellent pitch framing behind the plate.
Despite hitting for average in Class AAA, the knock on Conger was that he struggled as a hitter. Still, the Astros took a chance on him and are being rewarded with a determined hitter.