Indians outright Matt LaPorta to Triple-A

Matt LaPorta, a former top prospect, has been outrighted to Triple-A by the Cleveland Indians as the team makes 40-man roster moves.

The Cleveland Indians announced several 40-man roster moves on Tuesday, including outrighting first baseman Matt LaPorta to Triple-A Columbus.

LaPorta, a former top prospect and seventh overall pick, was the key piece of the deal that sent CC Sabathia to the Brewers in 2008. He turns 28 in January.

He made just 60 plate appearances for the Indians in 2012, hitting .241/.267/.328, and has a .238/.301/.393 line with 31 home runs in 1,068 career plate appearances.

LaPorta hit .264/.350/.472 with 19 home runs in 434 Triple-A plate appearances with Columbus in 2012.

The Indians also outrighted infielder Brent Lillibridge to Triple-A while designating right-handed pitcher Fabio Martinez for assignment.

The team added outfielder Tim Fedroff, left-handed pitcher T.J. House and right-handed pitchers Chen-Chang Lee and Trey Haley to the 40-man roster as well.

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