Caleb Ferguson acquired by Mariners in trade with Pirates to bolster bullpen

The Seattle Mariners acquired left-handed reliever Caleb Ferguson from the Pittsburgh Pirates to strengthen their bullpen, sending right-handed pitching prospect Jeter Martinez to Pittsburgh. The 29-year-old Ferguson, who holds a 3.74 ERA and 1.09 WHIP in 45 appearances this season, will bolster a Mariners bullpen that ranks seventh in the majors in ERA. Ferguson, known as a groundball pitcher, has held opposing left-handed hitters to a .167/.257/.182 slash line this year and adds postseason experience to the group. He is making $3 million this year, with the Mariners taking on the pro-rated portion of his salary, and is eligible for free agency after next season.