Yesterday it was reported that the Seattle Mariners and Boston Red Sox were in the hunt for free agent slugger Mike Napoli. Jon Heyman
of CBSSports.com confirms that the Mariners and Red Sox are pursuing the
catcher/first baseman while adding the Texas Rangers to the list of suitors.
#mariners are definitely on mike napoli. other teams in mix include red sox & rangers.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeymanCBS) November 23, 2012
It’s been reported that Napoli is seeking a four-year
contract this winter. Teams appear hesitant to go beyond three guaranteed, the
Red Sox more so than the Mariners.
Boston is in the market for a first baseman, a position Napoli
has manned 133 times over the past three seasons. Seattle is in need of
offense, while Texas could also use a bat to help offset the potential loss of free
agent outfielder Josh Hamilton. The Rangers would also have to replace Napoli’s
bat if he signs elsewhere this winter.
Last season with the Rangers Napoli hit .227/.343/.469 with
nine doubles, two triples and 24 home runs over 352 at-bats. The 31-year-old
owns a career line of .259/.356/.507 over seven seasons in the majors.
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