Seattle Mariners Sign Cuban LHP Misael Siverio

The Seattle Mariners have signed Cuban left-handed pitcher Misael Siverio and assigned him to Triple-A Tacoma according to multiple outlets.

He hasn’t played since last winter, playing for Águilas de Mexicali of the Mexican Pacific League where he was 3-1 with a 2.45 ERA and 36 strikeouts in six starts.

The 25-year-old’s deal includes a $275,000 signing bonus and is a split contract, meaning he will earn one amount if he makes the big club or a separate amount if he is in the minors.

For Siverio, he will earn $508,000 if he is with Seattle, $120,000 in the minors.

I would guess that he would start at the minors given his lack of recent playing time. However, he will be evaluated at the Mariners’ mini-camp in February and that could go a long way in determining his readiness.

Siverio had this to say, via MLBlogs:

"“This is a proud moment for me, to be able to join the Seattle Mariners who have several Cubans in the organization that are my compatriots. I feel very happy because of the way that I have been treated here in Seattle and now the only thing left to do is to do my part, work hard and reach the Major Leagues.”"

At 5’9″ he is not a power pitcher. His fastball clocks in around the upper 80’s and is part of a four-pitch repertoire. Think Kris Medlen (size) meets Doug Fister (potential stuff).

Whether he ends up in Seattle in 2015 or not, his signing adds depth to the rotation options at Lloyd McClendon’s disposal for 2015 and beyond.