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Mariners decline lefty Wade LeBlanc's option for 2020 season

SEATTLE -- The Seattle Mariners have declined left-hander Wade LeBlanc's $5.5 million option for the 2020 season, and he will become a free agent.

LeBlanc was a starter for part of last season before being moved to the bullpen as the Mariners opted to give some of its younger prospects a chance in the rotation.

LeBlanc appeared in 26 games with eight starts and had a 6-7 record and 5.41 ERA. His problem was giving up the long ball, allowing 28 home runs in 121⅓ innings. Pitching mostly as a starter in 2018, LeBlanc was 9-5 with a 3.72 ERA.

LeBlanc's option would have become guaranteed if he had reached 160 innings last season. LeBlanc will receive a $450,000 buyout.

The veteran has pitched for seven teams during his 11 seasons.