CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Indians have traded catcher Kelly Shoppach to the Tampa Bay Rays for a player to be determined.

After Shoppach filled in for an injured Victor Martinez and led American League catchers with 21 homers in 2008, the Indians were expecting big things from him last season. However, he batted just .214 with 12 homers and 40 RBIs in 89 games. He struck out 89 times in 271 at-bats.
Shoppach’s departure could make Lou Marson, acquired in the deal that sent pitcher Cliff Lee to Philadelphia, Cleveland’s starter behind the plate. It will also give highly touted prospect Carlos Santana a chance of making the Indians roster.
The Indians will complete the trade with Tampa Bay before Dec. 20.
Shoppach spent four seasons with Cleveland. He was acquired in a 2006 trade with Boston.