Mariners add to the pen
Feb 6, 2012, 12:00 PM | Updated: Feb 7, 2012, 9:01 am
Jack Zduriencik has added to the bullpen once again. The Mariners have signed lefty Hong-Chi Kuo and former Blue Jay RHP Shawn Camp to major league contracts. To make room on the 40-man roster, Mike Wilson and Chris Gimenez were designated for assignment.
Kuo is an interesting choice, a risk/reward type guy. Two years ago he was an All-Star. Last year he had a horrible year and missed time due to anxiety. This offseason he had elbow surgery. That pretty much covers the gamut of highs and lows in a two year period. The Mariners clearly are hoping to see the All-Star version.
The second pitcher the Mariners have added is Shawn Camp. Camp has pitched at the major league level for eight years and appears to bring the “veteran presence” that Zduriencik has said he would like to have. He brings durability and experience and aside from last year, effectiveness in the recent past.
Both signings are interesting in that the bullpen appeared to be somewhat set. The fact that they were major league deals is what was most surprising. According to reports from Taiwan, Kuo’s deal is worth $500,000 guaranteed with incentives that could take it to $2.5 million.
On a completely unrelated note, tune in tonight from 7-9 p.m. for the Hot Stove League Show, where farm director Chris Gwynn, Jeff Datz, Kyle Seager, USA Today’s Paul White and Steve Delabar are scheduled to join us.
