Gomes impressive, but likely headed back to Triple-A

CHICAGO -- The Indians have been impressed with what they have seen from catcher Yan Gomes in his stint in the big leagues this month. Backup catcher Lou Marson is nearly ready to come off the disabled list, though, and Cleveland wants to keep Gomes playing regularly to continue his development.

Gomes will more than likely be sent back to Triple-A Columbus later this week.

"We've talked to Yan about this," Indians manager Terry Francona said. "We haven't made a move yet, but he understands that he does not need to be sitting here not playing. It's not in [the best] interest for his future."

Marson, who has been on the 15-day disabled list since April 9 after sustaining a strained neck in a collision at home plate on April 6, is scheduled to rejoin the Indians on Tuesday. Barring something unexpected, Francona said Marson will then be activated from the DL prior to Wednesday's game against the White Sox.

In three Minor League rehab games at Triple-A, Marson has gone 1-for-8 at the plate.

In his first six games with Cleveland since being summoned from Columbus on April 9, the 25-year-old Gomes hit .211 (4-for-19) with one triple, two home runs and three RBIs. Gomes has thrown out the only two runners to attempt to steal against him and he has posted a 3.52 catcher's ERA in his 46 innings behind the plate.

Francona said Gomes' game-calling ability has been especially impressive.

"[It's been] better than his experience," Francona said. "He doesn't have a ton of experience and he's done a very good job getting to know the pitchers, understanding our game plans, following them, establishing relationships. It's probably the reason we're so excited about him."