MLB-NEWS: The Baltimore Orioles have formally confirmed that they have signed a $145.4 million, three-year contract with Seattle Mariners’ outstanding shortstop, as reported by ESPN. following…..

J.P. Crawford homers, drives in 3 as AL West-leading Mariners stay hot with  8-5 win over Guardians | MLB | lancasteronline.com

Mariners Claim Duke Ellis From Mets

The Mariners announced that they have claimed outfielder Duke Ellis off waivers from the Mets and sent him to Triple-A Tacoma. The latter club had designated him for assignment recently. The Mariners already had a vacancy on their 40-man, which is now full.

Breakout Imminent: J.P. Crawford - Lookout Landing

Ellis, 26, had never appeared on a 40-man roster until a month ago but has now been on three of them in that time. The White Sox selected him on June 4 and he has since bounced to the Mets and now Mariners via waiver claims.

Breakout Imminent: J.P. Crawford - Lookout Landing

The interest is largely due to his wheels. In his 968 minor league plate appearances, he has a batting line of .241/.329/.333, which translates to an 88 wRC+. However, he stole 117 bases in 134 tries during that time. While he was briefly in the big leagues with the White Sox, he swiped four bags in four tries.

Breakout Imminent: J.P. Crawford - Lookout Landing

Such players can often carve out roles on contending clubs, particularly with expanded rosters in September. A key pinch running opportunity late in a game can often be the difference between a win and a loss. That’s especially true in the age of the free runner in extra innings.

Breakout Imminent: J.P. Crawford - Lookout Landing

The Mariners had an open roster spot, so there’s little harm in them grabbing Ellis for now. He can take some at-bats in Tacoma, though perhaps they will try to pass him through waivers at some point down the line or call him up to take advantage of his speed.