Mariners DFA OF Langerhans

The Seattle Mariners have designated defensive specialist outfielder Ryan Langerhans for assignment.

An exquisite defender at all three outfield positions, particularly the corners, Langerhans has become something of a sabermetric favorite in recent years; however, the Mariners, who broke camp with 11 pitchers, felt they needed a seventh reliever (Jesus Colome) after they were forced to turn to Rule 5 rookie Kanekoa Texeira in high-leverage situations. Langerhans was the odd man out.

Langerhans has had strikeout issues in his career, striking out in almost 30 percent of his plate appearances, which is unacceptable for a hitter with only average power (.147 career Isolated Power). He does somewhat make up for this with a strong batting eye (12.3% walk rate).

The lefty is a career .231/.332/.379 hitter with 27 homers in 513 games with the Braves, A’s, Nationals, and Mariners.

[4/12 UPDATE]: Langerhans cleared waivers and has been assigned to Triple-A Tacoma.