Morning Marquee: Nelson Cruz to Seattle; Lester visits SF

The Seattle Mariners have reportedly added the power bat of Nelson Cruz to a four-year deal for $57 million, per sources. The Mariners were looking for a bat to slot in behind Robinson Cano, and Cruz fits that bill. The M’s had been interested in Cruz over the last two seasons, but had been unable to ever come to terms with the power hitting OF/DH. The Orioles offered a qualifying offer to Cruz, so the Mariners will lose their first round pick, currently 19th overall.

The San Francisco Giants met with free agent pitcher Jon Lester yesterday, likely to enter the bidding war for the stars services. The Cubs and Red Sox have reportedly offered deals of near $130 million, and the Giants have the resources to do the same. Bruce Bochy was one of the “welcoming committee” members, and Tim Hudson was expected to join as well. Hudson makes his home in Atlanta, same as Lester.

One of the most highly sought after free agent relievers this off-season is Andrew Miller, and it appears the New York Yankees have thrown their hat into the ring. Miller entered free agency for the first time in his career, and the timing couldn’t be more perfect. After splitting time with Boston and Baltimore last season, Miller posted a 2.20 ERA and a 0.082 WHIP while the lefty showed the ability to retire right-handed hitters as well. A “lefty-specialist” who doesn’t need to be a specialist? There’ plenty of value there as the Yankees will join several other teams in pursuit.

Here are some of the headlines from yesterday:

‘Seattle Mariners reportedly sign Nelson Cruz’ – SoDo Mojo

‘Giants to meet with Oakland A’s Lester’ – Around the Foghorn

‘Yankees in “serious pursuit” of Miller’ – Yanks Go Yard

‘Yosmany Tomas signs with the Diamondbacks’ – Venom Strikes

‘Rays Sean Rodriguez traded to Pirates’ – Rays Colored Glasses