Right-hander Ian Snell, designated for assignment 10 days ago, cleared waivers and accepted an outright assigment to Tacoma today.

He had good reason – if Snell had declined the assignment, he wouldn’t have gotten the remainder of his 2010 salary.

Joining Snell in Tacoma will be utility player Matt Tuiasosopo, whose roster spot in Seattle was just filled by Jack Wilson.

Snell will pitch for the Rainiers and general manager Jack Zduriencik will burn incense in hopes that he pitches well enough that someone in need of pitching near the trading deadline will make an offer.

If not, he’s there in an emergency should Seattle need him.