According to Geoff Baker of the Seattle Times, the Mariners are "very close" to a deal with Josh Hamilton. The Rangers are going to be given every opportunity to counter whatever offer Seattle has made but are currently locked into a fight with the Dodgers over free agent right-hander Zack Greinke. So this Hamilton thing may take a little while to sort itself out. It would be a surprising but excellent get for the M's, who have struggled to attract top offensive talent.