Luke

Carlin

The deal also contains a spring training invite. Carlin must really like Columbus, because he’s elected to re-sign with the Tribe for the second offseason in a row despite spending all of 2011 at Triple-A and nearly all of 2010 there. Barring something unforeseen, he figures to spend most of 2012 at Columbus, as well.

Carlin went 3-for-14 (.214) in a short stint with the big-league club earlier this season. He seems likely to pass through waivers and head back to the Triple-A level.

Carlin has an extensive minor league career but just 142 career plate appearances in the majors. He’ll serve as catching depth behind Lou Marson with Carlos Santana (concussion) on the disabled list.

As expected. Carlin was called up from the minors last week and went 3-for-14 (.214) with an RBI during his brief time with the big club.

Damon left the team following Saturday’s game in order to be with his wife, who gave birth to twin girls Friday. The Indians are expected to send down catcher Luke Carlin in a corresponding roster move.

Carlin cleared waivers after being designated for assignment earlier this week. He’ll continue to serve as catching depth in the minors.

Carlin could have accepted a spot at Triple-A Columbus but will instead throw himself onto the free agent market. The 31-year-old catcher is a poor .179/.263/.286 career hitter in the major leagues and will probably be stuck with a minor league contract for 2013.

He’ll be given a spring training invite. Carlin is a .179/.263/.286 career hitter in the major leagues and will surely wind up at Triple-A Salt Lake to start the season.

Carlin spent last season at Triple-A with the Angels, batting .230/.339/.311 with four homers. The 33-year-old was with the Indians from 2010-12, totaling 10 games at the big league level. He gives the Tribe some organizational depth.

The 34-year-old backstop was released by the A’s a few weeks ago after hitting a paltry .146/.315/.214 over 34 games at Triple-A Sacramento. He’ll provide organizational catching depth for the Cubs.