Seattle acquires LHP Kickham from Cubs for minor leaguer

SEATTLE (AP) The Seattle Mariners have acquired left-handed pitcher Mike Kickham from the Chicago Cubs in exchange for minor-league pitcher Lars Huijer.

Seattle and Chicago finalized the trade Wednesday. Seattle designated for assignment Anthony Fernandez to clear a spot on the 40-man roster.

The 26-year-old Kickham spent his entire career in the San Francisco Giants organization before being claimed off waivers by Chicago in late December. He was designated for assignment earlier this month when the Cubs signed outfielder Chris Denorfia.

Kickham was 8-8 with a 4.43 ERA last season at Triple-A Fresno. He made 27 starts and was fourth in the Pacific Coast League in strikeouts. Kickham had limited experience with the Giants, going 0-3 with a 10.98 ERA making 14 appearances over two seasons.

Huijer did not pitch above Single-A last season in the Mariners organization.