The Seattle Mariners have added another power bat to their roster, signing first baseman Rowdy Tellez to a minor league contract with an invite to MLB spring training. The move provides Seattle with additional depth at first base and designated hitter as the team begins its preparations for the 2025 season.
“Rowdy Tellez to the Mariners. Minors deal. MLB camp invite.” via Jon Heyman on X, formerly Twitter.
Tellez, 29, is looking to rebound after an inconsistent 2024 campaign with the Pittsburgh Pirates. He started the season struggling at the plate, hitting just .177/.239/.223 through the first two months. However, he found his rhythm during the summer, batting .310 with a .533 slugging percentage from June through August. Unfortunately, his production dipped again in September, leading to his release just before he could trigger a $200,000 bonus in his contract.
Despite his up-and-down season, Tellez still managed to hit 13 home runs and drive in 56 RBIs over 421 plate appearances. His biggest asset remains his power, as he has launched 61 home runs over the past three seasons, including a career-high 35 homers with the Milwaukee Brewers in 2022.