The Seattle Mariners have reached an agreement with free-agent catcher Kelly Shoppach on a one-year deal worth $1.5 million. The deal is contingent upon Shoppach passing a physical which is scheduled for Wednesday. Shoppach will be reunited with Mariners manager Eric Wedge. Wedge and Shoppach were with the Indians from 2006 to 2009.
Shoppach split time with the Red Sox and Mets in 2012, hitting .233/.309/.425 with eight home runs in 245 plate appearances. As a member of the Tampa Bay Rays in 2011 Shoppach led the major leagues, throwing out 40.9% of potential base dealers.
The Mariners found themselves in need of a catcher after trading away John Jaso to acquire outfielder Michael Morse from the Washington Nationals. Shoppach would become the second catcher behind starter Jesus Montero. There was some speculation that the Mariners might be looking to add a catcher via a trade, but found a much more affordable option with Shoppach.
