Mariners Re-Sign Hisashi Iwakuma After Deal With Dodgers Falters

According to the , an IBWAA member, the Dodgers appear to be backing off of Iwakuma after a failed physical.

The Dodgers and Iwakuma struck a deal on December 6, a pact reportedly for three years and roughly $45 million, but the contract was never completed as his physical was reportedly a problem. Though details are sketchy on why Iwakuma didn't pass the physical, the front office in Los Angeles was no longer comfortable with the contract.

The Mariners posted a video on Twitter of general manager Jerry Dipoto Iwakuma's return at the team holiday party. He was getting more money and years from the Dodgers than the front office in Seattle had placed on the table, but that's how it goes in baseball sometimes. Instead, he returned to the team with which he spent his first four seasons in the majors. In 111 career appearances (95 starts), Iwakuma holds a record of 47-25 with a 3.07 ERA. When the contract ends, he will become a free agent again.

"This is a big move for us". The team has a number of slots that players will compete for when Spring Training gets started. When healthy, he's been a stabilizing part of Seattle's rotation, often slotting behind ace Felix Hernandez.

Olson, who was drafted by the Mariners in the seventh round of the 2013 MLB Draft, was designated for assignment on Wednesday to make room for right-handed pitcher A.J. Schugel on the 40-man roster. Prior, the Dodgers had been conspicuously tardy in officially announcing the deal despite news of it leaking almost two weeks ago. The move he made on Thursday night was an important one, and more than likely puts the finishing touches on a team that is completely revamped.

Seattle has $10 million options for 2017 and 2018, and Iwakuma would get a $1 million buyout if either option is declined.