BREAKING: Mariners sign slugging first baseman to compete for roster spot
Rowdy Tellez’s towering presence in the Mariners clubhouse was impossible to miss.
However, it wasn’t just his size that stood out—his bold personality and eye-catching attire also drew attention. Sporting unusually snug and short shorts for a 6-foot-4, 270-plus-pound man, along with a tank top, headband, black socks, and white sneakers, he certainly made an impression.
The veteran first baseman arrived at the Mariners complex early Friday morning to complete his physical and officially sign a minor league contract with an invitation to MLB camp. He was on the field later that day, participating in the team’s pregame workout.
Tellez, who turns 30 on March 16, is looking to earn a roster spot as a designated hitter and first baseman. He had multiple minor league contract offers with MLB camp invitations but ultimately chose Seattle.
“It was about finding the best fit for me, where I could have the biggest impact and feel like I belonged,” he said. “The Mariners reached out a little later in the process, but when they did, I jumped at the opportunity.”
Last season with the Pirates, Tellez posted a .243/.299/.392 slash line in 131 games, recording 18 doubles, 13 home runs, 56 RBIs, 31 walks, and 89 strikeouts in 421 plate appearances. He was particularly productive during the summer months, hitting .310/.346/.533 with 14 doubles, 11 home runs, 42 RBIs, 13 walks, and 45 strikeouts over 228 plate appearances in June, July, and August.
Rowdy Tellez taking swings pic.twitter.com/IHIzJslk4E
— Ryan Divish (@RyanDivish) February 21, 2025
Primarily used in a platoon role at first base, the left-handed hitter logged 375 plate appearances against right-handed pitchers in 2024, slashing .248/.299/.394 with 17 doubles, 11 home runs, 52 RBIs, 25 walks, and 72 strikeouts. Over his career, he has recorded a .235/.302/.449 slash line against right-handers, tallying 78 doubles, three triples, 90 home runs, 264 RBIs, 149 walks, and 388 strikeouts across 1,831 plate appearances.
“The Mariners have the pitching to compete, and I want to be part of a team that’s committed to winning,” Tellez said. “I’m here to contribute in any way I can, and I believe in myself as much as they believe in me. It’s a great opportunity, and I’m excited to be here.”