Rangers Add Cardinals Free Agent To Replace Star After 19-Home Run Season

The St. Louis Cardinals made wholesale changes across their depth this winter in an attempt to revamp the roster after a last-place finish in the National League Central a year ago.

In doing so, they parted ways with some quality players that could make an impact elsewhere.

One of the bigger surprise non-tender candidates just signed with the reigning World Series champions and will replace a premier player at his position.

The Texas Rangers signed catcher Andrew Knizner to a one-year, $1.825 million contract according to the New York Post's Jon Heyman on Thursday. 

Knizner hit .241 with 21 extra-base hits including 10 home runs, 31 RBIs and a .712 OPS (92 OPS+) in 70 games last season. 

The homegrown Cardinals backstop appeared to just be coming into his own before being non-tendered -- which saved St. Louis a marginal amount of money but more importantly paved the way for prospect Iván Herrera to make the Opening Day roster. 

Now Knizner will replace fellow backstop Mitch Garver, who hit .270 with 30 extra-base hits including 19 home runs, 50 RBI and a .870 OPS (134 OPS+) in 87 games a year ago.

Texas would be foolish to expect similar offensive production from Knizner. The Rangers likely will lean on Gold Glove catcher Jonah Heim much more next season with Knizner as more of a prototypical backup.