The Mariners reportedly proposed a one-year deal to free agent right-hander Jason Hammel, according to the Boston Globe’s Nick Cafardo. Cafardo adds that the contract offer came with a $10 million option for the 2018 season and was suggested “very early in free agency.” It now appears to have been withdrawn since the Mariners signed right-hander Yovani Gallardo and southpaw Drew Smyly last month.
The 34-year-old went 15-10 with the Cubs in 2016, earning a 3.83 ERA, 2.9 BB/9 and 7.8 SO/9 over 30 starts. He’s looking for a three-year deal, Cafardo writes, though the chances of netting a contract of that length seem like a long shot for the veteran right-hander.
While Seattle no longer looks like a fit for Hammel, Cafardo speculates that he could still draw some interest from the Royals. The club is also eyeing fellow veteran righty Doug Fister, who will likely come with a much cheaper price tag for the 2017 season.