Mariners Sign Josh Bard, Chad Cordero

The Mariners signed catcher Josh Bard and reliever Chad Cordero to minor league deals, according to a team press release.

Bard, 32 in March, hit .230/.293/.361 in 301 plate appearances for the Nationals this year, catching 630.6 innings.  He battled a groin strain at times.  Bard has flashed the ability to draw a walk in years past.  Since Kenji Johjima left for Japan, the Mariners have an opportunity for a veteran catcher.  Bard had also drawn interest from the Rockies.

Cordero, 28 in March, is attempting to recover from July '08 labrum surgery.  He tossed 14.3 innings in the minors for the Ms this year after signing in March.