Just days before the start of spring training, it appears Big Maple has returned to where it all began.
The Mariners have reportedly agreed to a deal with left-handed pitcher James Paxton, according to Sportsnet's Chad Dey. Paxton will sign a one-year deal worth $8.5 million, with bonuses worth an additional $1.5 million, according to ESPN's Jeff Passan.
A native Canadian, the Blue Jays reportedly had regular contact with Paxton during the offseason, according to Dey, though they never offered a contract.
Paxton, 32, was a fourth-round draft pick by the Mariners in 2010 and debuted in 2013.