MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Minnesota Twins have optioned backup catcher Drew Butera to Triple-A Rochester, ensuring that they will carry two catchers on the roster to start the season.
The Twins announced the move on Saturday. There was some talk in spring training about the Twins carrying three catchers to try reducing the workload on Joe Mauer as he comes back from an injury-plagued season.
But Mauer has shown no signs of troubles this spring and has been able to do everything asked of him. And the Twins added Ryan Doumit in the offseason to bring more offensive punch.
Butera has a .178 career average.
The Twins also placed right-hander Kyle Waldrop on the 15-day disabled list with an elbow strain and reassigned infielder Michael Hollimon to minor league camp.
