Mariners sign IF Tommy La Stella to 1-year deal
SEATTLE (AP) — The Seattle Mariners signed infielder Tommy La Stella to a one-year contract on Thursday, adding another versatile veteran to their roster.
La Stella played the past two seasons in San Francisco, but was designated for assignment by Giants in December. La Stella signed an $18.75 million, three-year contract before the 2021 season. However, he played in only 136 games and.245 during his two seasons playing for the Giants.
“Tommy’s makeup, instincts and experience in winning environments will benefit our team as we look to make the next step.” Mariners President of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto said in a statement. “We value his versatility and strike zone management skills, as well as what I believe to be a high baseball IQ.”
After Atlanta’s 2014 break-in, Seattle will now be La Stella’s sixth different team. After being an All-Star selection for the Los Angeles Angels in 2019, he was a career-best.295 with a.832 OPS and 16 homers, 44 RBIs. However, he was limited to 80 games due to a fractured right tibia from a foul ball.
La Stella was primarily a third-baseman and has likely been in a rotation for Seattle. He was also the Giants’ designated hitter in 43 of his games last season and could be Seattle’s left-handed hitting option.
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