The Dodgers have tried to stop the bleeding at their catcher position by acquiring Rod Barajas today from the New York Mets for cash. Here’s a brief news story.

Barajas, who turns 35 on Sept. 1, had a .263 on-base percentage and .414 slugging percentage in 267 plate appearances with New York this season.

The Dodgers, who lost starting catcher Russell Martin for the season Aug. 3 with injuries to his right hip, have been trying to get by with Brad Ausmus and A.J. Ellis., neither of whom have slugging percentages above .250.

Barajas has 12 homers this season – more homers than walks (eight). He has thrown out four of 27 runners attempting to steal. Barajas, who had a $500,000 base salary this season (not counting bonuses), could be a candidate for the backup catcher slot in 2011.