Mariners News: Seattle Claims OF Dan Robertson Off Waivers

The Seattle Mariners have been hard at work reshaping their roster over the last 24 hours, and the moves continued on Friday. The Mariners claimed Dan Robertson off waivers from the Los Angeles Angels this afternoon.

Originally selected by the San Diego Padres in the 33rd round of the 2008 draft, Robertson made his big league debut with the Texas Rangers in 2014. The Oregon State alum fared nicely in his debut campaign, posting a .271 batting average and swiping 6 bags over the course of 70 games. Robertson registered 0.2 wins above replacement during his time in Arlington, but was let go following the season.

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Jerry Dipoto added Robertson to the Angels’ roster last offseason, and he obviously is a fan of the diminutive outfielder’s game. The 30-year-old hit .280 through 75 at bats last season with the Halos. Robertson spent the bulk of the season in triple-A, where he hit .265 with 1 home run, 20 RBI and 6 steals in 60 games.

Robertson is a versatile defender with the ability to play all three outfield spots. He is most experienced playing left field, but he also has solid metrics in center. Dan possesses a strong arm and a steady glove.

Robertson has been very successful during his career in the minor leagues. Across 8 seasons, he is hitting .299 with 27 homers, 334 RBI and 139 stolen bases. Robertson’s numbers are nearly as impressive in triple-A, where he has posted a .288 average with 8 home runs, 119 RBI and 49 steals in 338 games.

The Fontana, CA native will never be a home run threat, but he knows what he’s doing in the batters box. Robertson rarely strikes out, and has a career .324 on base percentage. He does a great job of putting the ball in play, and his speed applies pressure on the defense. Robertson works the count nicely, and could be effective at the top of the lineup or in the bottom third.

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In a corresponding moves, the Mariners outrighted reliever J.C. Ramirez to triple-A Tacoma. The 27-year-old saw action in 8 games this past September with Seattle, but failed to impress. Ramirez went 0-1 with a 7.56 ERA through 8.1 innings pitched. His 0.71 strikeout to walk ratio left plenty to be desired.

Dan Robertson is expected to compete for the fourth outfielder gig next spring in Peoria. His stiffest competition could be Shawn O’Malley, who did a nice job for the Mariners down the stretch. James Jones is another player who will get an opportunity to fight for the job. At the very least, Robertson will serve as valuable depth on the M’s 40-man roster.

Next: Mariners News: M's Complete 6-Player Trade with Tampa Bay

Jerry Dipoto stressed the need for the Mariners to get more athletic, and thus far he has taken steps to improve in that department. Robertson is a speedy outfielder who does a nice job getting on base. Overall, I really like the addition, and hopefully Robertson is able to make an impact with Seattle in 2016.