The Mariners and Red Sox finalized their trade that brings Casey Kotchman to Seattle in exchange for outfielder Bill Hall, a player to be named, and cash. The M’s acquisition of the 26 year-old slick-fielding first baseman signals the departure of free-agent slugger Russell Branyan, who suffered from a disc issue in his back late in the season last year.

The Royals sign 19-year-old Cuban pitcher Noel Arguelles, who immediately becomes one of the minor leagues’ top pitching prospects.

In other signings, the Braves ink veteran OF/1B Eric Hinske while the Athletics re-sign DH Jack Cust.