The Mariners officially signed Ryan Garko to a one-year, $550K deal today. Garko can earn another $525K in plate appearance incentives. Gregg Bell of the AP first reported the agreement.
Mariners assistant GM Jeff Kingston recently spoke about targeting a right-handed hitter who can crush left-handed pitching while playing at first base or DH. Garko, 29, fits the bill given his .311/.391/.491 line against southpaws over the past three seasons. Garko was non-tendered by the Giants after the season. The Mariners can retain him for 2011 and 2012 as an arbitration-eligible player if they choose.
GM Jack Zduriencik's take on the signing:
"We are happy to add Ryan to our Major League roster. We think he is a player that adds versatility as a right-handed hitter with experience playing first base, designated hitter and catcher."
