Mariners Sign Veteran Speedster

The Seattle Mariners brought in a couple of big-time power bats last week, in Jesse Winker and Eugenio Suarez. Now they're hoping that they've addressed their need for speed, adding 9-year major league veteran Billy Hamilton.

The 31-year-old has been one of the game's best base-stealers for close to a decade—that is, when he's been able to get on base. Hamilton has always had trouble getting to first, with a career .293 on-base percentage, and a .240 batting average. 

But he did have four straight 50+ stolen base seasons with the Cincinnati Reds from 2014-2017, and has stolen a total of 314 bags in his career. He also provides solid defense in the outfield. 

With a starting OF lineup of Jesse Winker, Mitch Haniger and Jarred Kelenic, a solid late-inning defensive replacement is of utmost importance for the Mariners, and Hamilton would certainly help in that regard. 

It's a minor-league deal for Hamilton at this point, but the M's will let him do his thing in the major league camp for the next couple of weeks, giving him a chance to make the roster for Opening Day. 

Photo Credit:  Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports