The Seattle Mariners and former All-Star outfielder Carlos Gonzalez have reportedly agreed to a minor-league contract, per USA Today’s Bob Nightengale.
Gonzalez, who appeared in just 45 games during the 2019 season with the Cleveland Indians and Chicago Cubs, will head to spring training with a chance to make Seattle’s roster to open the season. The 34-year-old’s minor-league deal will pay him $750,000 if he makes the Opening Day roster.
A three-time All-Star, most recently in 2016, Gonzalez struggled to attract interest this offseason following another disappointing year. After spending nine seasons with the Colorado Rockies, Gonzalez received opportunities with the Indians and Cubs this past season but finished with a .200/.289/.283 slash line with 52 strikeouts in 145 at-bats.
He could have a chance to make Seattle’s roster to begin the season with star outfielder Mitch Haniger sidelined to open the season. However, the Mariners might ultimately decide to give opportunities to their younger outfielders in a rebuilding season.