The Seattle Mariners have finalized a $1.5 million, one-year contract with catcher Kelly Shoppach, providing a needed backup to expected starter Jesus Montero. Seattle announced the deal Thursday. To make room on the 40-man roster, Seattle designated for assignment reliever Shawn Kelley, who just last week agreed to a 1-year, $935,000 deal with the team to avoid arbitration. Seattle has 10 days to trade or release Kelley, or to send him outright to the minors if he clear waivers.
