Mariners sign OF-1B Nelson to minor-league deal

Published 6:51 pm Thursday, May 21, 2009

SEATTLE — First baseman/outfielder Brad Nelson has signed a minor-league contract with the Seattle Mariners just a few days after he refused an outright assignment by the Milwaukee Brewers.

The 6-foot-2, 266-pound left-handed hitting Nelson was outrighted by the Brewers last Friday, but chose free agency. He was quickly grabbed by the Mariners, who were familiar with him. Seattle general manager Jack Zduriencik worked for Milwaukee last season.

The 26-year-old Nelson made the Brewers’ opening day roster, but played in just 19 games and went hitless in 21 at bats. Last year with Class AAA Nashville, Nelson hit .286 with 18 homers and 78 RBIs.

He was assigned to Class AAA Tacoma by the Mariners.