Doyle Somerby had an improved sophomore season in the minors and it was enough to get him another season with the Blue Jackets, who announced that they’ve re-signed the defenseman to a one-year, two-way contract. Brian Hedger of the Columbus Post-Dispatch reports (Twitter link) that the deal will pay the league minimum $700K in the NHL and $80K in the minors.
The 24-year-old joined Columbus two years ago after opting to not sign with the Islanders who originally drafted him back in the fifth round (125th overall) back in 2012. In 2018-19, he played in 66 games with AHL Cleveland, recording 20 points while being held off the scoresheet in seven postseason contests.
It’s likely that Somerby will be earmarked for the minor leagues once again. The Blue Jackets already have five blueliners under contract for next season with Scott Harrington, Ryan Murray, and Zach Werenski all in need of new deals as well. That doesn’t leave much (if any) room on their back end to start but a good showing with the Monsters could have him in the mix for a midseason recall.