Mariners, free agent Cano meet in Seattle

SEATTLE – The Mariners’ courtship of Robinson Cano continued on Thursday in a more intimate setting. Sources confirmed that the free-agent second baseman flew to Seattle, along with his representation led by Brodie Van Wagenen and rapper Jay-Z, to meet with upper-level Mariners management, Thursday evening and into today.

While this is a major step in trying to convince Cano to sign a free-agent deal, a face-to-face meeting guarantees little. But having Jay-Z, who formed Roc Nation Sports in partnership with Creative Artists Agency, in the discussions means that talks are beyond preliminary. Cano became the first client for the fledgling sports management company, when he left super agent Scott Boras in April.

There seems to be genuine interest from Cano’s side in coming to Seattle. He’s had phone conversations with Mariners ace Felix Hernandez about the organization and the city. Hernandez could also attest to the organization’s willingness to spend money, having signed a seven-year, $175 million contract before last season.

Ideally for the Mariners, a deal would be finalized with Cano while he’s in Seattle and announced by this weekend. It’s possible there could be some hesitation from the Cano camp if they are waiting from a counter-offer from the New York Yankees.