The Seattle Mariners re-sign Kendall Graveman to a one-year major league contract
The 29-year-old pitcher became a free agent after the World Series was complete, but Jerry Dipoto moved swiftly to re-sign Kendall Graveman to a contract. Dipoto gave Graveman a chance by signing him in 2019 after coming off of Tommy John Surgery. Graveman signed a one-year $1.25 million contract with almost double the amount of incentives.
Graveman pitched in 11 games in 2020 and missed part of the season with neck spasms. Of his 11 appearances, two of them were starts at the beginning of the season. He was not great as a starter but his stuff looked suprisingly good despite not pitching in 2019.
After moving to the bullpen in September, he threw 10 innings as a reliever and gave up only four earned runs. He only struck out five batters but limited walks to just three. As Dipoto mentioned, he is looking to bolster the bullpen with hopes to compete in 2021.
Since Graveman looked good as a reliever with a hard fastball, I think the intention is to use him as a reliever moving forward. Graveman is also 29-years-old and has been a professional for six years so he could be considered a veteran. He could provide some stability in the bullpen with experience pitching in the league.
The one-year deal is a good deal for both parties because it is relatively affordable, and will pay Graveman well if he performs and stays healthy. I am rooting for Graveman to make an impact and help the Mariners win in 2021.