"The Rays were pleased with Casey Kotchman's play last season but felt enough need to upgrade their power production at first base that they spent a surprising $7.25 million to bring in Carlos Peña.

On Thursday, Kotchman found a new home, agreeing to a one-year deal with the Indians for $3 million plus up to $1.75 million incentives.

"Like I've always said, it's a privilege to put on a major-league uniform and I'm appreciative for the opportunity to be able to go to Cleveland and play for the Tribe,'' Kotchman said.

The St. Petersburg native and Seminole High product resurrected his career playing at home last season, hitting .306 with 10 homers and 48 RBIs and leading major-league first basemen in fielding for the fourth straight season.

Coming off a miserable 2010 season in Seattle, Kotchman signed a minor-league deal with the Rays for $750,000 then earned another $400,000 in incentives. He had interest in returning, but when the Rays chose to turn back to Peña, who was with them 2007-10, Kotchman had to look elsewhere."