Mariners Sign Free Agent LHP George Sherrill to 2012 Contract

JACKSON, TENN. (JANUARY 3, 2012) - Seattle Mariners Executive Vice President & General Manager of Baseball Operations Jack Zduriencik announced that the Mariners have signed free-agent left-handed pitcher George Sherrill to a 2012 contract. With today's transaction, the Mariners 40-man roster is now at 38 players.

Sherrill is a 1995 graduate of Evangelical Christian School (ECS) in Memphis and started his college baseball career at Jackson State Community College in 1996 and 1997. As a freshman, Sherrill was the No. 3 starter and helped Jackson State to its first Junior College World Series. By the end of his sophomore year, he had earned a scholarship to Austin Peay State University. Sherrill was a closer in 1998, then was moved into the starting rotation the next season as a senior.

Sherrill, 34, appeared in 51 games with the Atlanta Braves (all in relief) last season, posting a 3-1 record with an even 3.00 earned run average. Sherrill limited opposing hitters to a .248 average, including a .236 mark by right-handed hitters. In 36.0 innings, he allowed just 33 hits while striking out 38. Sherrill was on the 15-day disabled list from Aug. 31 through the end of the season with left elbow inflammation.

In his career, Sherrill has limited left-handed hitters to a .180 batting average against (99x550) while walking 43 and striking out 208. He has appeared in the Majors with Seattle (2004-2007), Baltimore (2008-2009), Los Angeles-NL (2009-2010) and Atlanta (2011), compiling a 19-17 record with 56 saves in 440 career games. In four seasons with the Mariners, he combined for a 3.65 ERA (52 ER, 128.1 IP) in 195 appearances. He made 73 appearances in 2007, tied for 4th-most in club history, and 72 in 2006 (T7th).