Mariners general manager Jerry Dipoto added the final major piece to Seattle's bullpen Monday when he signed sidearm-style reliever Steve Cishek to a two-year deal worth a reported $10 million.
ESPN was first to report the signing over the weekend, but the official announcement came from Dipoto Monday.
As suspected, Cishek will serve as the Mariners closer next season -- Dipoto confirmed as much -- after relievers Fernando Rodney, Carson Smith and Tom Wilhelmsen filled that role to varying degrees of success last season. All have since been traded.
To make room for Cishek on the 40-man roster, the Mariners designated reliever Rob Rasmussen for assignment.