SEATTLE (AP) — The Seattle Mariners signed outfielder Rob Refsynder to a one-year contract on Monday, adding a veteran right-handed hitter to their lineup.
Refsynder, who turns 35 in March, spent the past four seasons with the Boston Red Sox. This year, he batted .269 with nine homers, 30 RBIs and an OPS of .838 in 70 and 209 plate appearances.
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With the Mariners, he hopes to get playing time at designated hitter against left-handed pitching. He could also provide an option at the corner outfield position and potentially play Josh Naylor at first base.
“Rob has been one of the most productive hitters among left-handed pitching over the past four seasons, providing offensive balance and leverage to our lineup,” Mariners general manager Justin Holland said in a press release announcing the deal.
Refsnyder batted over .300 against lefties for five straight seasons. He was a .255 career hitter with 33 home runs and an OPS of .730 in 10 major league seasons with the Yankees, Blue Jays, Rays, Rangers, Twins and Red Sox.
Refsnyder, who was born in South Korea, helped the University of Arizona win the NCAA championship and became the Most Outstanding Player of the 2012 College World Series.
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