Dec 02, 2009 4:59 PM EST

The Mariners are showing strong interest in free-agent pitcher Rich Harden, sources told FOX Sports.

Harden is a native of Victoria, British Columbia, which could give Seattle an advantage while courting him.

The Red Sox are rumored to be pursuing Harden as well.

He went 9-9 with a 4.09 ERA for the Cubs this past season.

Via FOX Sports