Seattle Mariners Close to Signing Deal with Veteran Catcher Kelly Shoppach

Sep 12, 2012; Flushing, NY,USA; New York Mets catcher Kelly Shoppach (6) singles to shallow center during the second inning against the Washington Nationals at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports

It was just announced today that the Mariners were hosting veteran catcher Kelly Shoppach in Seattle. Shoppach was under general manager Eric Wedge‘s tutelage while Wedge was with the Cincinnati Reds, so he’s quite aware of what this catcher can do on the field.

He still needs to pass a physical on Wednesday before everything becomes official. Additionally, the Mariners’ 40-man roster is already full, so they will need to make room for him by either offering up someone or releasing someone.

Shoppach has a .226 batting average and hit only five homers last year. Even so, someone who consistently shows up might be a good thing for the M’s. He would be an alternate for the Mariners’ Jesus Montero, and he would replace John Jaso, who was recently used in a three-way trade to acquire Mike Morse.

The 32-year old, 6’0″ tall, player has been a part of many teams including the Boston Red Sox, New York Mets, Tampa Bay Rays, and Cleveland Indians.

According to ESPN, it will be be a one-year, $1.5 million contract with various incentives built in, including a $500,000 bonus. Before the contract becomes official, the Mariners are awaiting results of a physical, to be undertaken on Wednesday.

What do you think about this probable acquisition for the Mariners? Did they make a good move, or is this another addition to the collection of aging veterans that Jack Zduriencik has been amassing?