The deal also includes performance bonuses. Hirano, 36, came over to MLB three years ago and posted a 5.84 ERA with four saves over 13 relief appearances with the Mariners last year. His career is going full circle, as he began his pro career with the Buffaloes and pitched 11 seasons for the club before coming stateside.

Fortunately, he was working with a three-run lead before giving up three hits and a walk. Hirano is 4-for-4 closing out games for the Mariners, even if he's not inspiring a ton of confidence in the process.

Hirano gave up three consecutive hits to open the ninth inning before starting a pivotal double play on a comebacker to the mound off the bat of rookie sensation Jake Cronenworth. He proceeded to coax a ground ball to second base from ensuing batter Jurickson Profar to end the contest. The 36-year-old righty has converted all three of his save chances this year. He owns a 2.70 ERA, 1.50 WHIP and 8/4 K/BB ratio across 10 innings.

It hasn't happened quite as expected, but Hirano has emerged as the Mariners' closer this month after being signed to contend for the job over the winter. He has, however, pitched three straight days now, so the Mariners will likely need to turn elsewhere if they have another save chance tonight or tomorrow. Yohan Ramirez is the likeliest option.