Update...The Mariners have sent out the release with quotes from Jack Zduriencik. Here he is on re-acquiring Branyan.

"“It’s no secret that we’ve been pursuing a bat for some time,” Zduriencik said. “The opportunity to consummate a deal presented itself today. In Russell, we have added a bat that can help bolster our offense. With three-plus months to play we want to give our team every opportunity to be as productive as possible this season, while not harming the long-term plan for the franchise.

“Russell had the most productive season of his career with us last year, so we know he’s a good fit for our team and our ballpark. With our pitchers throwing so well, and our young starters still developing, I wanted to give them every opportunity to continue to develop. Part of that development is winning games, and we feel Russell can help us do that.

“We are pleased to add Russell’s presence to our lineup.”

Branyan is expected to join the team in Milwaukee sometime after the start of the game. A corresponding roster move will then be made. My original post is below.

Turns out something was up with the closed door meeting in Don Wakamatsu's office following today's win over the Brewers. The Mariners have traded two minor leaguers, outfielder Ezequiel Carrera and shortstop Juan Diaz for Russell Branyan.

Branyan returns to the Mariners just months after the two sides failed to come to agreement on a deal in the off season. Russell was looking for a two year deal but the Mariners were concerned about his back. He signed late with the Cleveland Indians and did start the season on the DL but since being activated April 24 has hit .263/.328/.491 with 10 homeruns and 24 RBI. The ten homeruns and .491 SLG top those categories for the offense starved Mariners.

Interesting move. Any trade at this point not involving Cliff Lee I think would be a bit of a surprise. The initial reaction is, hey, they are adding offense. They are not throwing in the towel. This could be, but this does not mean they are no longer looking to trade Cliff Lee. Their thinking could be with the possibility of Erik Bedard returning before the All Star Break why not make such a move and trade Lee for maximum value. Erik Bedard cannot replace Lee but Branyan does give them more offense. Obviously this is a move to improve now and not for the future. It is also most likely just the first move we will see. Interesting, and certainly not what was expected.

I will have more on this tomorrow.

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