Well, we sure are going to miss him.
Veteran outfielder and Orioles powerhouse hitter Nelson Cruz has agreed to a multiyear deal with the Seattle Mariners, pending a physical, according to ESPN. The two sides agreed on a four-year, $57 million deal that also includes a $1 million singing bonus.
The Orioles had previously made a one-year qualifying offer of $15.3 million to Cruz for 2015, which he rejected, ensuring them draft-pick compensation if he signs with another team.
According to Baltimore Sun baseball writer Dan Connolly, that is one more year than the Orioles were willing to go. The team was most likely hesitant to sign a long-term deal with a 34-year-old player.
The Orioles will need to replace his bat both in left field and in the DH spot and rumors are flying that the O’s are interested in Torii Hunter if he’s willing to accept a one-year deal. Apparently, they are also viewing free agent Melky Cabrera as an alternative. Still no word on a deal between the O’s and stalwart player Nick Markakis.
Needless to say, Cruz has left some awfully big shoes—and 40 HRs and 100 RBIs—to fill on the team’s roster.
Thanks for the memories, Nelly!