Tim

Laker

The Indians are changing backups, and the 36-year-old Laker gets the nod over Einar Diaz, who had just a 641 OPS in Triple-A. Laker was hitting .270/.333/.397 in 63 at-bats. He won’t have any fantasy value while playing behind Victor Martinez.

Laker went 4-for-13 while serving as Victor Martinez’s backup since May 20.

GM Mark Shapiro has made it clear that Josh Bard will backup Victor Martinez in 2005. It’s hard to argue with this decision as the 35-year-old Laker hit only .214 this season with just 17 RBI in limited action.

The contract guarantees Laker $150,000 regardless of whether he makes the club. That could signal that the Rays will trade Toby Hall even if they don’t acquire Charles Johnson or that they’re going to send Kevin Cash to Triple-A if Hall is kept.

Laker will be assigned to Triple-A Durham, but he is likely to be called up by the Rays should anything happen to Toby Hall or Kevin Cash.

Laker had missed a month with a broken left hand. He’ll be reassigned to Triple-A Durham later this week.

This shouldn’t be a guaranteed contract. With Victor Martinez and Josh Bard around, there’s not going to be any reason for the Indians to carry Laker next season.

Laker, 36, hit .226/.305/.385 for Triple-A Durham last season. He’ll be the catcher the Indians call up in case of injury.

Laker cleared waivers after being designated for assignment on Tuesday.