Mariners release Kawasaki, decline option on Olivo

Well, the Mariners dugout just became a lot less entertaining. Munenori Kawasaki, the little used infielder perhaps known best for his dugout dancing, has been released by the team. The Mariners also declined the 2013 option on catcher Miguel Olivo, which doesn't come as much a surprise.

Here is the release from the team:

SEATTLE, Wash. -- Seattle Mariners Executive Vice President & General Manager of Baseball Operations Jack Zduriencik announced the following roster moves today:

• Munenori Kawasaki, INF, released from Major League contract.

• Miguel Olivo, C, club option declined for 2013. (will become free agent first day after conclusion of World Series)

The Mariners 40-man roster is now at 39 players, with one player still on the 60-day disabled list (LHP George Sherrill).

Kawasaki, 31, appeared in 61 games (25 starts) for the Mariners in 2012, his first in the Major Leagues. He was named the Mariners nominee for the Major League Baseball Alumni Association Heart and Hustle Award. Kawasaki was an eight-time All-Star (2004-11) and a two-time Golden Glove winner with Fukuoka in the Japan Pacific League prior to joining Seattle.

Olivo, 34, appeared in 87 games in 2012, starting a team-high 68 games at catcher. He hit .222 (70x315) with 12 home runs and 29 RBI, his seventh consecutive season with double-digits in home runs. Behind the plate he ranked tied for fourth in the American League with 19 caught stealing.