The Mariners released right-handed pitcher Anthony Bass on Thursday so Bass can pursue a career in Japan.
Bass, 28, was expected to compete for a spot in Seattle's bullpen in spring training after coming over in the Nov. 16 trade that also sent reliever Tom Wilhelmsen, outfielder James Jones and prospect Patrick Kivlehan to the Texas Rangers for center fielder Leonys Martin.
Bass had 33 relief appearances last season with the Rangers, going 0-0 with a 4.50 ERA, 20 walks and 45 strikeouts. The offseason trade continued what's been a nomadic career for Bass. A fifth-round pick by the Padres in the 2008 MLB draft, Bass has had stints in San Diego (2011-13), for the Houston Astros (2014) and Rangers during five seasons in big leagues while going 5-9 with a 4.