Mariners add free-agent outfielder Nori Aoki on one-year deal

The Mariners added to their outfield Thursday, signing free agent Nori Aoki to a one-year deal.

Aoki, who turns 34 in January, hit .287/.353/.380/.740 for the Giants last year. He played in just 93 games, missing time with a mid-season leg injury and a concussion that he suffered in August. He returned from the concussion and played in 14 more games but eventually was shut down when concussion symptoms persisted. When healthy, he has been remarkably consistent at the plate in his four-year career with a batting average that has never fallen below .285 and an on-base percentage that has ranged from .349 to .356.

“Adding Nori addresses our desire to be more athletic in the outfield, as well as more contact oriented in the batter’s box,” said general manager Jerry Dipoto in a press release. “His consistency, versatility and energetic style of play will fit us very well.”

Aoki joins an outfield of Franklin Gutierrez, Leonys Martin and Seth Smith and brings the element of athleticism that general manager Jerry Dipoto values. He can play both corners and should allow Nelson Cruz to spend more time in the designated hitter role.

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