Mariners Sign Slugger Nelson Cruz to 4-Year Deal

By Francisco Romero. –  Last season it was Robinson Cano and now the Mariners have signed Outfielder Nelson Cruz to a 4-year deal through the 2018 season.

According to Greg Johns from MLB.com the agreement is worth $58 million.

“Our number one goal this off-season was to improve our offense, ideally by adding right-handed power, and with the addition of Nelson Cruz we think we’ve accomplished that goal,” Seattle Mariners Executive Vice President & General Manager of Baseball

OF Nelson Cruz Signs 4-Year Deal with Mariners

Operations Jack Zduriencik said through a press release. “He is an impact hitter that will bat in the middle of our line-up. Nelson has a track record as a middle of the order hitter on pennant contending clubs. He will be an asset on the field and in the clubhouse. Nelson’s presence in our clubhouse and as a teammate will continue to help our club advance to the next level. We see him as an ideal fit as we strive toward our goal of winning a World Championship.”

Cruz, 34, led the Majors with 40 home runs in 2014, and was third in the Majors with 108 RBI to go along with 32 doubles and 2 triples. He set new single-season career-highs in runs (87), hits (166), HR, RBI, walks (55), extra-base hits (74) and total bases (322) while tying his career-high in games played (159).

Last season he signed a one-year deal to play with the Baltimore Orioles after playing his previous eight seasons with the Texas Rangers.

In 2013 Cruz received a 50-game suspension in the Biogenesis scandal.

“I am excited to join the Mariners,” Cruz said. “Watching Seattle play from the other side of the field, I know how close this team is to the post-season, and I am hopeful that I can help to get us there.”

The Mariners finished last season with a record of 87-75 in third place in the National League West.

The Mariners train at the Peoria Sports Complex in Peoria, Arizona during Spring Training.