Seattle, WA (Betting Express) - The Seattle Mariners have signed infielder Russell Branyan to a one-year deal. Per club policy, financial terms of the deal were not released. "Russell gives us a veteran left-handed bat with power and can be used as a first baseman, third baseman or designated hitter," said executive vice president and general manager of baseball operations Jack Zduriencik. "One of our offseason goals is to add some left-handed power to our club. The addition of Russell accomplished some of that." Branyan appeared in 50 games -- 35 starts -- for the Milwaukee Brewers last season and batted .250 with 12 home runs and 20 RBI. He was especially useful off the bench, as he ranked fourth in batting average and was tied for second in home runs among National League pinch-hitters with at least 10 plate appearances. For his career, Branyan is a .230 hitter with 133 home runs and 320 RBI in 766 games for the Cleveland Indians, Cincinnati Reds, Tampa Bay Rays, San Diego Padres, Philadelphia Phillies, St. Louis Cardinals and Brewers. Branyan, who will turn 33 on December 19, has played for five different teams over the last three seasons.
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