Mariners sign free agent 3B Figgins

The deal is reportedly worth roughly $36 million and also includes an option for a fifth season.

"We see Chone as a great fit for our ball club and the city of Seattle," said Seattle General Manager Jack Zduriencik. "We anticipate an exciting time watching Ichiro and Chone batting at the top of our lineup. He is an athletic player with speed and versatility. He also brings tremendous character and positive energy to our organization."

The two sides had been negotiating for a lengthy period, so the announcement came as no surprise to baseball observers. But it was dependent on the outcome of an arbitration offer made to incumbent Seattle third baseman Adrian Beltre, who declined the Mariners' offer Monday.

The versatile Figgins, 31, comes from the Angels, for whom he batted .298 with a .395 on-base percentage last season, swiping 42 bases and drove in 54 runs to help Los Angeles win the American League West championship.

Copyright 2009 by United Press International.