The Mariners may be facing the same problem with left fielder Raul Ibanez that they are with left-hander Jarrod Washburn. The trade market for both players appears limited.
Stalemated with the Yankees over Washburn, the Mariners are trying to stir interest in other clubs, including the Rockies. Lots of luck when the M’s want to purge the remainder of Washburn’s $9.85 million salary this season and $10.35 million salary next season and get legitimate players in return.
Ibanez, a free agent after this season, is owed only about $2.2 million. But the M’s want two quality prospects from the Mets for a two-month rental. The Cubs also are interested, but perhaps not as motivated as the Mets.
The Diamondbacks had early interest in Ibanez, but their need for him has diminished — they’re playing Conor Jackson in left field and Chad Tracy at first base while awaiting the return of right fielder Justin Upton from a left oblique strain in 7 to 10 days.
The Mariners do not want to move Ibanez for less than the value of the two premium draft picks they would receive if they offered him arbitration and he left as a free agent. But Lee Pelekoudas, the team’s interim general manager, surely does not want to get shut out at the unrestricted trade deadline when he is trying to earn the job permanently.