The Orioles sign newly minted major leaguer Samuel Basallo to an eight year contract worth from $67 million to $88 millon. He is a heavy hitting catcher:

While Baltimore already has a starting catcher in two-time All-Star Adley Rutschman, Basallo could also see time at first base — where he has played more than 100 games over his five minor league seasons — and designated hitter.

Regardless of where he winds up on the diamond, Basallo’s allure has more to do with where he slots in Baltimore’s order. With elite bat speed and exit velocities among the best at any level, Basallo has the talent to become a consistent 30-homer threat, according to evaluators.

ESPN.com

Catchers often suffer short shelf lives. Rutschman is already in his fourth season, and should be peaking at seasonal age 27. Instead, his rWAR declined every year, from a high of 5.4 in his rookie season to a low of 1.7 as we approach the end of this season. This is why catchers who hit well are often moved to other positions, especially if they are not particularly skilled behind the plate. If Rutschman’s decline is real, Baltimore just signed someone who can fill the gap cheaply for the long term, or just be another strong bat in the lineup.