Blake Hunt, 26, briefly joined the Mariners organization earlier last season after being traded from the Tampa Bay Rays in November 2023. Following 24 games with Triple-A Tacoma, Hunt was traded to the Baltimore Orioles on May 22 in exchange for right-hander Mike Baumann and catcher Michael Pérez. The Orioles designated Hunt for assignment on Monday.
Hunt played a total of 70 games in 2024 across the Mariners and Orioles’ minor league systems. He posted a .218 batting average, with 10 doubles, two triples, seven home runs, 28 RBIs, 14 walks, and 64 strikeouts.
To make room for Hunt on the 40-man roster, infielder Samad Taylor was designated for assignment. The Mariners now have 10 days to trade, release, or outright Taylor.
Taylor made three appearances for the Mariners last season, recording two hits in five at-bats with one strikeout. He hit .262 with 19 doubles, four triples, 11 home runs, 75 RBIs, 50 stolen bases, 68 walks, and 156 strikeouts for Triple-A Tacoma.
Looking Ahead:
Pitchers and catchers are set to report to spring training in Peoria, Arizona, on February 12, with the first workout the following day. The first full squad workout will take place on February 18, and the Mariners will kick off their spring training games against the San Diego Padres on February 21.
Mariners’ International Signings:
The Mariners also made 12 signings for their international class, including two of MLB Pipeline’s top 20 international prospects: Venezuelan outfielder Yorger Bautista (No. 6) and Dominican Republic shortstop Kendry Martinez (No. 19).
“Today is special not only for the players and their families but also for our scouting staff, who have been with us throughout the evaluation process,” said Frankie Thon Jr., Mariners’ senior director of international scouting. “Signing two of the top 20 overall prospects, along with a strong overall position player group, highlights the depth and potential of this year’s international class.”
