Mariners acquire Seth Smith from Padres for Brandon Maurer

The Seattle Mariners have agreed to acquire Seth Smith from the San Diego Padres for right-hander Brandon Maurer, according to Jerry Crasnick of ESPN.com. Shannon Drayer of 710 ESPN in Seattle reported earlier today that a deal for Smith was close.

After trading for Matt Kemp, Wil Myers, and Justin Upton already this offseason, the Padres needed to unload at least one of their "old" outfielders to help rework the rest of their team. Smith fits the bill, and after drawing a lot of trade interest, the Padres were able to deal him to Seattle.

The Mariners, whom have already signed Nelson Cruz this offseason to likely play designated hitter (according to the depth chart on their official website), just got an upgrade to their outfield, which currently holds the likings of Dustin Ackley, Austin Jackson, and Justin Ruggiano. Smith will play right, with Ruggiano going to be their fourth outfielder, I would presume. 

The 32-year-old Smith enjoyed the best offensive season of his career in 2014, according to Adjusted OPS+, which measures how good a player's OPS is, adjusted to park and league factors. He slashed .266/.367/.440 in 521 plate appearances, hitting 12 homers and driving in 48. Smith posted a 2.6 fWAR.

In terms of defense, Smith spent most of his time in 2014 out at left field, posting a just above average two defensive runs saved. In right field this past year, he was worth four defensive runs. Smith can play both corner outfield positions, but has spent most of his time in left field. 

Smith is under contract through 2016, with a team option for 2017. He will make $6 million this season, $6.75 million next season, and has a $7 million option for 2017 with a $250,000 buyout. Overall, Smith is guaranteed $13 million over two years, which would be a good price for a free agent outfielder similar to his caliber. I would assume that the Mariners will take his entire contract. 

Brandon Maurer heads to San Diego from Seattle. The 24-year-old Maruer pitched 69.2 innings with Seattle last season, posting a 4.65 ERA in 38 games and seven starts. He posted a 55/19 strikeout to walk ratio and would be a good option for the Friars as a spot starter and long reliever. 

--Devan Fink

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