Mariners reach deal to bring back Taijuan Walker

SEATTLE — The Seattle Mariners on Wednesday announced that they signed free-agent pitcher Taijuan Walker to their 40-man roster.

The deal is reportedly worth $2 million and Walker can earn up to $3 million based on incentives.

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Walker was drafted by the Mariners in the first round, 43rd overall, of the 2010 MLB Draft. He made his MLB debut Aug. 30, 2013 and pitched for the Mariners through 2016.

“We’re excited to bring Taijuan back to Seattle,” general manager Jerry Dipoto said in a news release. “We believe our opportunity and his skill set are a great match and know that, if healthy, he can be a impact Major League starter for us.”

The Mariners traded Walker and Ketel Marte to the Arizona Diamondbacks on Nov. 23, 2016 in exchange for Jean Segura, Mitch Haniger and Zac Curtis.

In his first season with the Diamondbacks, Walker went 9-9 with a 3.49 earned run average.

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Walker underwent Tommy John surgery in April 2018 and has appeared in just one game since.

In December, Walker became a free agent when he was non-tendered by the Diamondbacks.

The Mariners’ pitchers and catchers reported to spring training in Peoria on Wednesday.

Opening day for the regular season is March 26 at home against the Texas Rangers.

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