The Seattle Mariners have signed Franklin Gutierrez to a 4 year $20.5 million extension with a club option for 2014. This deal allows the Mariners to avoid arbitration with and also allows them an good option for Gutierrez’s first year of free agency. Last year Gutierrez hit .283 with 18 home runs and 70 RBI.
This was a wise move on the part of Jack Zduriencik and his staff. Gutierrez is a premier defender in centerfield which helps because of Safeco’s large outfield. Many people felt Gutierrez was snubbed for a Gold Glove award this year. While Gutierrez has not been a consistent offensive threat over the years he is coming into prime and he fits into the style of team Zduriencik is trying to build in Seattle. Kudos to Zduriencik on solidifying a team over the next few years that has the ability to manufacture runs and play stellar defense.
I like the moves Seattle has made this off season, this being one of them. Gutierrez looks like he is starting to come along now that he is assured of regular playing time. Here is what the Mariners have so far for next year:
LF – Milton Bradley
CF- Gutierrez
RF- Ichiro
3B – Chone Figgins
SS – Jack Wilson
2B – Jose Lopez
1B – Casey Kotchman
C – ?
DH – Griffey
Combine that with a 1-2 punch of Felix Hernandez and Cliff Lee in the rotation and the Mariners have a good core.
Agreed, at 20:1 in vegas, this is a great value bet, the Cubs are currently at 20:1 as well, figure that one out! (Ref. OddsMaker.com) Look for them to make some noise in the West and maybe make a run at it! Good to see the M’s get back after it!
The cubs should be however many years they havent won to 1…the M’s could be pretty good…have alot of low price high value guys…Hard to believe they never moved ichiro to center