Mariners Win Arbitration Against Slugger For Record-Breaking Salary

The Seattle Mariners' newest outfielder has lost his arbitration hearing against the team.

Teoscar Hernández, who was acquired from the Toronto Blue Jays back in mid-November, lost his arbitration hearing against the Mariners on Saturday and will make $14 million this season.

Teoscar Hernández (2)

Opponent: Tampa Bay Rays
Pitcher: Ryan Thompson
Date: 5/14/22 pic.twitter.com/N1A7Y1tbKX

— TOR Home Runs (@TOR__HR) February 18, 2023

The two sides were $2 million apart last month when they exchanged figures, with Hernandez filing for $16 million.

However, the arbitrator ruled with the Mariners, making this the largest arbitration award in league history, crushing the previous-high salaries of $13.5 million given to Gerrit Cole in 2019 and Max Fried earlier this offseason.

The 30-year-old slugger crushed 25 home runs, 77 RBIs, six stolen bases and 71 runs scored over 131 games last season with the Blue Jays. He posted a .267/.316/.491 triple-slash line as well.

This is the last year that Hernandez was eligible for arbitration, and he'll hit free agency after the completion of the season.

He's expected to hit in the middle of the Seattle lineup this year and he's a huge addition to their offense. Photo Credit:  John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports