Morning Marquee: Mariners acquire Seth Smith from Padres

Although no notable free agent signings took place Tuesday ahead of New Year’s Eve, the Seattle Mariners continued their offseason shopping, trading for outfielder Seth Smith from the San Diego Padres. Smith adds another offensive option to the Mariners’ lineup, joining ranks with Robinson Cano, Kyle Seager and Nelson Cruz in pursuit of an American League West title.

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The Chicago Cubs, meanwhile, were tied again to Stephen Drew, but, for the time being, no move has been made. The Tampa Bay Rays, however, signed free agent infielder Asdrubal Cabrera to a one-year deal, adding to the middle infield logjam for the club. Rumor has it, however, that the team has made utilityman Ben Zobrist available and it’s hard to imagine that an overwhelming majority of teams won’t be in on him in the weeks to come.

The free agent market remains largely at a standstill, with the likes of Max Scherzer and James Shields both still available. The market for those two arms will likely heat up after the New Year – although where each ends up remains a mystery. Scherzer, however, is reportedly seeking $200 million – and with agent Scott Boras in tow, this could take talks with interested suitors into early spring.

Here’s more from around the league:

“Asdrubal Cabrera signs one-year deal with Rays” – Call to the Pen

“Agent: Starlin Castro may be better off living in U.S.” – Cubbies Crib

“Mariners trade for outfielder Seth Smith” – Sodo Mojo

“Nine possible destinations for Max Scherzer” – CBS Sports

“Ben Zobrist would be a nice fit in Chicago” – Cubbies Crib

Next: Stephen Drew - a waste of money and a roster spot