Seattle Mariners sign 2-year contract with reliever Ken Giles



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On Friday, the Seattle Mariners signed a two-year, $ 7 million contract with reliever Ken Giles, which includes a club option for the 2023 season.

Seattle signed Giles knowing he won’t pitch for the Mariners this season as he recovers from Tommy John’s surgery. Manager Scott Servais has stressed that no matter how far Giles has come in his recovery, he will not be appearing in the majors in 2021.

“There is no way that will happen,” Servais said. “We won’t let that happen. It’s not the deal, and everyone has understood that you are doing the right thing and taking our time to get it back.”

Seattle nominated right-handed pitcher Robert Dugger to clear a spot on Giles’ 40-player roster.

When in good health, Giles has been one of the best relievers in the American League. He made 34 saves and a 2.30 ERA in 63 appearances for Houston in 2017. He made 23 saves and a 1.87 ERA in 53 games for Toronto in 2019, with 83 strikeouts and just 17 steps in 53 innings.

But Giles struggled with his arms last season. He appeared in just four games before deciding at the end of September to have Tommy John surgery.

“Ken has been one of baseball’s most valuable relievers since his debut in 2014,” said general manager Jerry Dipoto. “He’s always dominated the strike zone with elite level stuff. He won’t be able to contribute this season as he continues with rehabilitation after Operation TJ, but we are confident in his ability to make an impact. on our club in 2022 and potentially beyond. “

Giles met Servais as the pitchers and receivers showed up at the team’s spring training center in Peoria, Ariz this week. Servais said the likely plan is for Giles to stay in Arizona in rehab after the team headed north for the start of the regular season.

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