Castro, Guzman avoid arbitration

Both of the Astros arbitration eligible players reached agreements with the club today. On the last day to sign before heading to arbitration, both Jason Castro and Jesus Guzman inked one year deals. John Heyman is reporting that Castro’s deal is worth $2.45 million. The terms of Guzman’s contract have yet to be disclosed.

Castro, who was working out at Minute Maid Park today, told Brian McTaggart that he was happy to get the deal over with. As for a long term deal, Castro said that he has not been involved in any such discussion at this point.

"I think it’s a good deal and I’m glad that we were able to come to an agreement, and now we can just kind of shift the focus to getting ready for the season and everything that I would normally do to prepare for spring. I’m excited and ready to get going."

Jesus Guzman also signed today. The OF/1B acquired from San Diego last month could see a lot of playing time with the Astros in 2014. Guzman was brought in to push Brett Wallace for the first-base job and his versatility should help him get into the lineup at least a couple of times a week.

The two newly signed veterans will be leading the way when position players report to Kissimmee for Spring Training on February 19. Pitchers and catchers report on February 15.

Jason Castro (Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports)