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The Seattle Mariners have been an active bunch early in the offseason after another mediocre season. As the General Manager Meetings wrap up, one report indicated the M's could be interested in free agent outfielder Nick Swisher.
As Mark Feinsand tweeted on Friday, Swisher declined the Yankees' $13.3 million qualifying offer and is now free to sign with the team of his choosing. Most estimates believe the soon-to-be 32-year-old outfielder will receive a deal worth at least four years with an annual salary in the $11 million to $13 million range.
Swisher batted .272 this past season with a .837 OPS, which are both close to his career averages. The right fielder 24 homers and drove in 93 runs with the Yankees, making him one of the more attractive pieces on the free agent market. His defense rates is slightly above average, according to FanGraphs.
There is no doubt Swisher could provide a big boost to a Mariners lineup that ranked near the bottom of the American League in runs scored last year. At the same time, he will not come cheaply and could potentially limit Seattle's ability to improve other aspects of the ball club given his financial demands.
Look for Swisher's name to continue to be tied to the M's in the coming weeks.