Steven Bisig – USA TODAY SPORTS
The Seattle Mariners activated outfielder Franklin Gutierrez from the DL for last night’s game against the Texas Rangers, a game which the Mariners lost 8-3.
Due to injuries, Gutierrez has only appeared in 19 games this season, but he is batting .250 with five home runs in those few games. His problems lie in his being so injury-prone for the last few seasons. When he is healthy and playing consistently, Gutierrez is one of the better outfielders in the league and certainly the best in Seattle. The Mariners are hopeful that he will stay healthy and productive for the remainder of the season.
Gutierrez is only signed through the end of 2013, so if he becomes unhealthy or unproductive, the team has the option to buy out his 2014 contract for $500K. Gutierrez went 0-4 in yesterday in the loss to the Rangers.
The Mariners also designated veteran starter Aaron Harang for assignment. Harang is 2-4 with a 6.31 ERA in his last 10 starts. He hasn’t won a game since July 22 and has struggled mightily of late, giving up seven runs in three of his last five starts.
Rookie Taijuan Walker, currently starting for triple-A Tacoma, is a possible candidate to take Harang’s place in the rotation on Friday, but long relievers Brandon Maurer, Blake Beavan and Hector Noesi are also possibilities.
In yet another Monday twist, a mystery team claimed Kendrys Morales off waivers yesterday. That team has two days to work out a trade for Morales, who has been one of Seattle’s top hitters this season. Morales will be a free agent this fall.
Matt Lanka is a Mariners writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @mattlanka, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.
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