M's Looking to Lock Up Players?

According to John Hickey of the Seattle PI, the Mariners may be looking to lock up a few of their players during this Spring, as the M's prefer to. He talks about the chances of the Mariners signing Felix Hernendez, Kenji Johjima, Richie Sexson, Raul Ibanez, and Erik Bedard to long term deals.

Felix and Bedard seem like sure bets to be in long term negotiations soon. Bedard can opt for free agency after the '09 season, and if the Mariners are smart, they will be looking to sign him to a long term extension. Felix may be locked up for the rest of his arbitration years before this season starts.

The other three, can all be free agents after this season. Richie Sexson probably won't be back, and why should the Mariners bring him back? After signing him to the massive deal three years ago, he hasn't done much for the Mariners. Kenji Johjima seems most likely to stay. Jeff Clement appears to be almost there, so wouldn't bringing Joh back hurt Clements progress? He (Johjima) has played well in his time here. He should get a good look at being brought back. Jose Vidro has a vesting option for 2009, but I don't know what it is, and Raul Ibanez's defence has slipped and slid away. If Ibanez is brought back, it will most likely be as a DH. He has put up some solid numbers over the last few seasons, but has been a but of a liability in the field. It'll be interesting to see what Bavasi does. If I know Bavasi, than he'll probably do something stupid that might turn out okay. I can remember the Carl Everret signings...