Report: Mariners to add former Brewers infielder Rickie Weeks

ESPN’s Jim Bowden has reported the rather curious news that the Mariners have agreed to terms with former Brewers second baseman Rickie Weeks on a one-year deal worth $2 million. As primarily a second baseman – heck, exclusively a second baseman in the major leagues – the 32-year-old Weeks is not an obvious fit at this time but Bowden notes that he could play the corner outfield positions as well.

As this is a major-league contract, you can expect that Weeks will be on the 25-man roster. I really wasn’t expecting the Mariners to go with an eight-man bullpen on a full-time basis but this move most likely eliminates that possibility. The move also makes me wonder if there are doubts that Willie Bloomquist will be ready to go by opening day coming off knee surgery. If he isn’t, then will the Mariners need to keep the loser of the shortstop battle to back up the position? A lot of questions to be answered.

Weeks, who was drafted and signed by Mariners general manager Jack Zduriencik while he was with the Brewers, hit .274/.357/.452 last year in 252 at-bats. His 2015 option with the Brewers did not vest after an injury in 2013 and a part-time role in 2014 limited his at-bats.

Last year was his first year as a part-time player and the numbers would indicate that he adapted well to the change in roles. His role change this season will be more significant as he could be called upon to play multiple positions, including left and first base, two positions where he could be asked to platoon should the incumbents falter. If Weeks is able to learn the positions and maintain his numbers, it would appear that manager Lloyd McClendon just got a nice addition to his bench.

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