The Seattle Mariners have confirmed the signing of Rob Refsnyder to a one-year, $6.25 million contract. Refsnyder most recently spent four seasons with the Boston Red Sox, primarily serving as a right-handed platoon bat. In 2025, he logged 209 plate appearances in that role.

Sep 7, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Boston Red Sox outfielder Rob Refsnyder attempts to make a diving catch in the sixth inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Mariners Sign Rob Refsnyder to One-Year Deal

While the move lacks the headline appeal of names like Ketel Marte or Eugenio Suárez, it addresses a clear roster need for Seattle. Refsnyder provides a serviceable bat on a team-friendly deal. He gives the Mariners added flexibility as they continue to explore upgrades elsewhere on the roster.

Welcome to Seattle, Rob! 👋

We’ve signed OF/1B Rob Refsnyder to a 1-year Major League contract through the 2026 season. #TridentsUp

🔗 https://t.co/L6ibQoTnw3 pic.twitter.com/wPPN844DYY

— Seattle Mariners (@Mariners) December 22, 2025

Why the Signing Makes Sense

The Mariners’ left-handed-heavy lineup struggles against left-handed pitching, making this signing a strong fit, directly addressing a clear weakness. Refsnyder consistently punishes left-handers, posting a .959 OPS while slugging .560 against them last season. He has been consistent across his four seasons in Boston, recording an OPS of .800 or better in three of those years. He also brings a strong approach at the plate, walking 11.5% of the time while rarely chasing pitches outside the zone. Since 2022, among hitters with a minimum of 400 plate appearances, only two players have paired a wRC+ of 155 or better with a walk rate of at least 12 percent: Refsnyder and Aaron Judge. The Mariners’ signing of Refsnyder just made too much sense, given the cost and how the roster is set up.

While Refsnyder is not a standout defender, he offers positional versatility and can move around the field as needed. In that sense, the signing is less about star power and more about roster construction.

Interesting in Seattle’s announcement, he was listed as first baseman/right-fielder. Already with Dominic Canzone, Luke Raley, and Victor Robles on the roster, this points to a potential trade of one of these players in the future.

Overall, this is a practical, low-risk addition for the Mariners. It fills a specific lineup need without limiting future flexibility. It allows Seattle to remain aggressive as it pursues more impactful offensive upgrades.

 

Main Photo Credit: © Eric Canha-Imagn Images