Why Kelly Shoppach to Tampa matters to the Mets

As we’ve seen, the Mets are trying to scoop up a whole bunch of catchers.  They have Omir Santos and Josh Thole, and they signed Chris Coste yesterday and added him to the 40-man.  They’re also in talks with Henry Blanco.

But Kelly Shoppach, coming off a decent 2009, where he hit .214 / .335 / .399 with 12 home runs and 40 RBI, was just traded to the Tampa Bay Rays for a player to be named later.

Why were the Mets not interested?  He’s cheaper than Bengie Molina, who the Mets have their sights set on.  Sure, Shoppach’s not amazing behind the plate, but either is anyone else out there, especially Molina.

What really might interest Omar Minaya, but not me, is what the Rays do with Dioner Navarro.

If the Rays non-tender him, the Mets could look to add him to add to the depth at the catching position.  He’s not someone I would clamor for, or even suggest in passing, but as the Mets look to add players at this position, I’m sure Minaya will be interested.

‘I will always be a Phillie’ [Quote]

“I will always be a Phillie.”
-Chris Coste after signing with the Mets

What was that saying about getting off on the right foot?

(Via Brian Costa)

Mets sign Chris Coste, add him to 40-man roster

According to a report out from The Forum of Fargo-Moorhead, the Mets have signed 36-year-old catcher Chris Coste.

Coste, who played in 88 games last year split between Philadelphia and Houston, has been added to the 40-man roster.  The Mets were the only team to offer him a guaranteed spot on the roster, according to The Forum.

Last season, Coste hit .224 / .301 / .317 in 205 at bats.  He hit two home runs and drove in 18.  In his career, Coste has hit .272 / .329 / .416 with 23 home runs and 108 RBI over 437 at bats.

Looks like the Mets will be stockpiling catchers this off-season.