Mariners sign Hernandez

SEATTLE, Jan. 19 (UPI) -- Right-handed starter Felix Hernandez signed a one-year contract with the Seattle Mariners Monday, avoiding arbitration.

MLB.com reported the deal was worth $3.8 million for Hernandez, 22, who made $450,000 last season when he led the Mariners with 31 starts a 3.45 earned-run average, 175 strikeouts and 200 2/3 innings pitched.

Jack Zduriencik, the Mariners' executive vice president & general manager of baseball operations, said the signing was important for the team "to avoid any distraction as we prepare for the season."

In four seasons with Seattle, Hernandez produced a 39-36 record and a 3.80 ERA.