Mariners to sign Cust

Free-agent slugger Jack Cust and the Mariners agreed to a one-year contract worth $2.5 million Wednesday, giving Seattle a veteran designated hitter heading into 2011. Cust confirmed the agreement pending his passing a physical later this week. Cust spent the past four seasons with Seattle’s A.L. West rival Oakland and likely will become the Mariners’ regular DH, though he also provides versatility for new manager Eric Wedge with the ability to play the outfield. The Athletics didn’t offer a contract to Cust last week, making him a free agent. He hit .272 with 13 homers and 52 RBIs in 112 games last season. He added 68 walks for a .395 on-base percentage.

– Wire reports