SEATTLE — The Seattle Mariners hired Milwaukee Brewers special assistant Jack Zduriencik as their new general manager today.

The 57-year-old Zduriencik replaces Bill Bavasi, who was fired in June, and takes over for interim Lee Pelekoudas. Known for his skill in drafting players, Zduriencik worked with Brewers general manager Doug Melvin.

Since arriving in Milwaukee in 1999, the team drafted Prince Fielder and Rickie Weeks as well as 2007 NL Rookie of the Year Ryan Braun, J.J Hardy, Corey Hart, Yovani Gallardo, Manny Parra and Tony Gwynn Jr. — the young foundation of Milwaukee's playoff team this season.