Seattle Mariners officially sign former New York Yankees left fielder Raul Ibanez – MLB Update
The Seattle Mariners have officially signed the former New York Yankees left fielder Raul Ibanez. He was signed couple of days back but his signing was not official with the Mariners but now Seattle management has announced Ibanez’ one-year deal in the local
media.
“We spoke of adding some veteran presence to our ball club this offseason, In Raul we have a player and person with outstanding leadership skills who has participated in postseason play the last several years. We will give Raul the opportunity to come in
and compete and add an additional veteran presence to this ball club," Seattle general manager Jack Zduriencik said and explained about the signing.
Later Seattle Mariners manager Eric Wedge said in a press release, "Raul is the ultimate professional both on and off the field, His veteran presence will be invaluable to our younger group of players."
Free agent left fielder Raul Ibanez earlier wanted extension with the New York Yankees but as soon as Yankees’ front office made him realised that they will not be re-signing him, he signed with the Mariners.
Playing with the New York Yankees, Raul Ibanez showed consistent plays last season. He achieved consistent numbers and showed great commitment during the entire season and earned appreciation from within the roster. He went hitting at .240 along with 19
home runs, 62 RBIs and .308 OBP.
Not only in the last Major League Baseball season, but Ibanez is performing in the big league since arriving in 1996. He started his Major League career from Seattle Mariners and later onto play for the Kansas City Royals and Philadelphia Phillies. His career
numbers are also consistent at .278 hitting average along with 271 home runs, 1116 RBIs and .340 OBP.
Experts believe that Ibanez’ arrival in the Seattle Mariners is healthy sign and if he showed his real power plays, the Mariners certainly will achieve more excellence in their current overall results. Last year, the Mariners were just short to enter into
the playoffs race, but now with Ibanez’ company, they will surely compete to get a post season spot.
Tags: