The Seattle Mariners claimed outfielder Leody Taveras off waivers from the Texas Rangers on Tuesday, adding depth to their outfield roster. The move occurred a day after Taveras was placed on outright waivers following the Rangers' game against the Mariners.
Taveras, 26, had spent his entire six-year major league career with Texas. He played a key role in the Rangers' 2023 World Series win, starting all five games in center field. This season, he was batting .241 with one home run, eight RBIs and six stolen bases through 30 games before being waived.
In claiming Taveras, the Mariners assume the remaining portion of his estimated $3.25 million salary for this season. The club also gains control for two additional arbitration-eligible years before he can reach free agency.
The Mariners also made other roster adjustments Tuesday, reinstating utility player Dylan Moore from the injured list. Utility player Samad Taylor was optioned to Triple-A Tacoma, and right-hander Luis F. Castillo was designated for assignment. Moore returns after batting .286 before his absence due to right hip inflammation.
Following Taveras' departure, the Rangers recalled outfielder Evan Carter from Triple-A Round Rock. Carter had started the season in the minors after struggling in spring training.
Carter's path back to the major league roster follows a 2024 season where he was limited by a stress reaction in his back, playing only 45 games and hitting .188. He underwent a procedure in the offseason but continued to face challenges during Cactus League play.
Taveras traveled across the country Tuesday, flying from Boston to San Francisco before arriving in Sacramento to join the Mariners, who were on a road trip. He was expected to make his debut Wednesday, potentially playing right field, a position new to his MLB career.
Mariners manager Dan Wilson noted the possibility of a "change of scenery" benefiting Taveras.
"He’s a very talented player, great tools, and we’re excited to see him on our side," Wilson said.
Taveras expressed surprise regarding the Rangers' decision but looked ahead to his opportunity with Seattle.
"I’m happy. All I remember is the pitching staff we have here and I’m happy to be part of them. I don’t have to face them. I know it’s going to be fun to be here," Taveras said.
Carter, who had been hitting .221 with three home runs in 21 games for Round Rock, commented on his time there.
"At the end of the day, though, this is where I want to be," Carter said Tuesday at Fenway Park. "I want to be competing here and helping the team win here. Everything that I've done is about trying to be able to get back here and help the team win."
