Free-agent shortstop Clint Barmes signed a two-year deal with the Pittsburgh Pirates on Monday -- leaving the Astros with decisions to make regarding how best to fill the position for 2012.
Jon Heyman of SI.com reported Saturday that Pittsburgh and Barmes were putting the finishing touches on a deal worth $10.5 million.
Barmes confirmed to Brian McTaggart of MLB.com Monday that it was, in fact, a two-year, $10.5 million contract, pending a physical.
The deal ultimately became official.
Barmes, 32, hit .244 with 12 homers, 39 RBI, 27 doubles and 47 runs scored over 446 at-bats in 123 games for the Astros last season.
Astros general manager Ed Wade told Examiner.com that he wanted to re-sign Barmes as a free agent this offseason, but didn't think the "economic environment" would allow that to happen.
The veteran shortstop told Examiner.com toward the end of last season of his interest to return to the Astros as a free agent.
However, Barmes stated that he wanted to explore other opportunities while seeking the best possible deal on the market.
He was curious to see what kind of market existed for him as a starting shortstop, especially among teams not willing to pursue Type A free agents Jose Reyes or Jimmy Rollins as options.
Barmes told MLB.com Monday that the Milwaukee Brewers were in the picture, but they didn't want to make a possible two-year offer until seeing how Prince Fielder's free agency unfolded.
The Pirates emerged as the right fit, thus allowing Barmes to come in as the team's starting shortstop for manager Clint Hurdle, whom he previously played for as a member of the Rockies.
Barmes will replace Ronny Cedeno at shortstop.
With Barmes being a Type B free agent, his departure gives the Astros a supplemental pick in the 2012 First-Year Player Draft.
How does Houston plan to replace Barmes?
Wade told Examiner.com that he doesn't expect the team to be major players on the free-agent market, but it's possible the organization could look at cost-effective options or make a potential trade.
Angel Sanchez represents the top internal option.
Depending on how the competition between Chris Johnson and Jimmy Paredes at third base unfolds throughout Spring Training, it possible the Astros may give Paredes a look at shortstop.
Paredes recently told Examiner.com that he can play second, third or shortstop, and will do whatever the Astros ask of him next season.
Jonathan Villar, who was recently rated by Baseball America as the Astros' No. 4 prospect entering 2012, needs additional time to develop and will likely begin next season at Double-A Corpus Christi.
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