The Mariners’ first official acquisition of the offseason came on Friday when the team claimed right-handed pitcher Phillips Valdez off waivers from the Rangers.
Valdez, who turns 28 on Nov. 16, made 11 relief appearances with Texas last season, posting a 0-0 record with a 3.94 ERA. In 16 innings pitched he struck out 18 batters and walked nine. He made his MLB debut on June 8 vs. the A’s, pitching two scoreless innings while allowing one hit and issuing two walks.
He spent a large portion of the season with Class AAA Nashville, making 14 starts and 12 relief appearances.