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Mariners Acquire OF Justin Ruggiano from Chicago Cubs

RHP Matt Brazis sent to Cubs in trade. RHP Logan Bawcom designated for assignment

Seattle Mariners Executive Vice President & General Manager of Baseball Operations Jack Zduriencik announced today the club has acquired outfielder Justin Ruggiano (roo-jee-AH-no) from the Chicago Cubs in exchange for minor league relief pitcher Matt Brazis (BRAY-zis).

Ruggiano, 32, played 81 games with the Chicago Cubs last season, batting .281 (63x224) with 13 doubles, one triple, 6 home runs and 28 RBI. He missed extended time due to two trips to the disabled list, including season-ending left ankle surgery.

The Austin, Texas native has appeared in 398 Major League games over six seasons with the Tampa Bay Rays (2007-08, 2011), Miami Marlins (2012-13) and Cubs (2014). The right-handed hitter has clubbed 62 doubles, 3 triples and 43 home runs in his career. He has appeared in games at all three outfield positions: CF (166 G/148 GS), LF (118 G/71 GS), RF (76 G/56 GS).

Ruggiano was originally selected by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 25th round of the 2004 June Draft out of Texas A&M University (also attended Blinn College). He made his MLB debut Sept. 19, 2007 with Tampa Bay.

Brazis, 25, went 4-1 with 6 saves and a 2.36 ERA (19 ER, 72.1 IP) in 40 relief appearances with High Desert and Jackson last season. The right-hander limited opponents to a .208 average (54x260), while walking 18 and striking out 84. With Jackson he went 1-1 with 2 saves and a 1.64 ERA (6 ER, 33.0 IP) in 17 relief appearances. Brazis also pitched for the Surprise Saguaros in the Arizona Fall League going 1-0 with a 5.11 ERA (7 ER, 12.1 IP) in 10 relief appearances.

To make room on the Major League 40-man roster RHP Logan Bawcom has been designated for assignment.

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