Mitch Haniger bypassed the chance to decide out of the ultimate 12 months of his contract with the Mariners, MLBTR has confirmed. The outfielder returns to Seattle on a $15.5MM wage.

There wasn’t a lot doubt about this choice. Haniger is coming off a second straight down 12 months. He hit .208/.286/.334 throughout 423 plate appearances. That’s comparable manufacturing to the middling .209/.266/.365 slash he posted throughout his first season with the Giants. Haniger had been an above-average hitter over the 5 years previous his $43.5MM free agent take care of San Francisco.

Seattle reacquired Haniger final winter alongside Anthony DeSclafani in a deal that despatched Robbie Ray to the Giants. Neither facet bought a lot out of that commerce within the first season. Ray was inconsistent over seven begins and bypassed the prospect to decide out of the $50MM remaining on his deal. The M’s did handle to flip DeSclafani as a part of the Jorge Polanco commerce with Minnesota, however Polanco underperformed whereas DeSclafani blew out and by no means pitched for the Twins.

Assuming the Mariners hold Haniger on the roster by way of the offseason, he’ll compete for a spot in Dan Wilson’s nook outfield/DH rotation. Seattle has Randy Arozarena locked into left subject. Victor Robles is the favourite for enjoying time in proper, however he can transfer right into a fourth outfield capability if the M’s add an even bigger bat. Luke Raley ought to get a good chunk of enjoying time at DH, particularly if the Mariners purchase a primary baseman through free company or commerce.