Mariners Sign Ex-Red Sox Fan Favorite For Specialist Role

A nice get for Seattle...

Sep 9, 2025; West Sacramento, California, USA; Boston Red Sox designated hitter Rob Refsnyder (30) celebrates with third baseman Alex Bregman (2) after hitting a three run home run during the first inning against the Athletics at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images | Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images

The Seattle Mariners' offense just got a lot better against left-handed pitching.

It didn't seem possible that the Mariners would be done searching for impact bats once Jorge Polanco signed with the New York Mets, and on Monday, we learned that Seattle had a wise plan to replace the switch-hitting Polanco's impact from the right side of the plate.

According to ESPN's Jeff Passan, the Mariners and outfielder/designated hitter Rob Refsnydercame to an agreement on a one-year contract. Refsnyder, formerly of the Boston Red Sox, has built a reputation as a lefty-killer and should provide a valuable veteran presence in the clubhouse.

Mariners' Refsnyder pickup provides valuable on multiple fronts

Seattle announced the signing on X before Passan's alert came through, so the deal is official. According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, Refsnyder will be paid a $6.25 million salary and can earn up to $250,000 in incentives.

Refsnyder won't play too often against right-handed pitching, so he's something of a luxury piece to have. But he's so good against lefties that he's worth carrying, and more than a few Red Sox fans are upset to see him go.

In 70 games this past season, Refsnyder slashed .269/.354/.484 with nine home runs, 30 RBIs, and a 131 OPS+. He had a .959 OPS in his 138 plate appearances against lefties, including a .399 on-base percentage and seven of his nine long balls.

Refsnyder, who is entering his age-35 season, has openly mulled retirement over the past couple of years. But he performed so well that it wouldn't have made sense to simply hit the road, as he struggled to establish himself before coming to Boston in 2022.

Refsnyder also has just over seven years of major league service time, so if he lasts the full season on the Mariners' roster, he'll get a free lifetime pass to any and all major league games for himself and a guest.

Most of all, Refsnyder brings veteran presence and a specialized skillset to a Seattle team with every intention of winning a pennant. He won't be a superstar, but he could be the man the Mariners want at the plate against a southpaw with their season on the line.

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