The New York Mets have acquired catcher Kelly Shoppach from the Boston Red Sox for a player to be named later, the team has announced:
— New York Mets (@Mets) August 14, 2012
#Mets moves: Claim catcher Kelly Shoppach on a waiver claim from the Boston Red Sox for a player to be named later.
It was reported earlier today that Shoppach, who had been placed on waivers earlier this week by the Red Sox, had cleared. However, the Mets have announced that they claimed the catcher and a deal was ultimately worked out that sent the backstop the New York.
The Mets have been in search for an alternate option at catcher to pair with starter Josh Thole, who’s struggled himself. They’ve tried Mike Nickeas, who only hit .168/.241/.228 over 101 at-bats, and Rob Johnson, who’s hit .250/.298/.288 over fifty-two at-bats, but neither offered much in the way of offense.
Shoppach, on the other hand, has had an impressive 2012 campaign with the bat. The 32-year-old has hit .250/.327/.471 with twelve doubles and five home runs over 140 at-bats.
The move will result in top Red Sox catching prospect Ryan Lavarnway seeing more time at the major league level as he’s now the club’s only backup catcher on the roster.
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How do you like this move for the Mets? Red Sox?
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