Good morning everybody and happy Wednesday! We had a very busy day in the baseball world yesterday, so let’s get to it.
In Mariners news...
- While Jerry Dipoto was tampering expectations somewhat for the 2021 season, Justus Sheffield expects the squad to make the playoffs this season.
Around the league...
- In case you missed it, the Mets fired general manager Jared Porter on the heels of a report that he sexually harassed a female reporter in 2016.
- It’s not out of the question that Porter receives punishment from the league because of his actions.
MLB plans to investigate former Mets GM Jared Porter in light of the news of his explicit, unsolicited texts to a female reporter in 2016, source says, confirming @BNightengale's report.
— Tim Healey (@timbhealey) January 19, 2021
A suspension could require reinstatement by MLB before Porter gets another job in baseball.
- Another major free agent domino fell last night with the Blue Jays agreeing to a six-year deal with outfielder George Springer.
- Our good friend found himself a new home.
We have signed RHP Erasmo Ramírez to a Minor League contract. He will be invited to Major League spring training. pic.twitter.com/pO7jJwvw1S
— Tigers PR (@DetroitTigersPR) January 19, 2021
- Another former Mariner also found a landing spot.
Red Sox signed ex-Mariners righty Zac Grotz to a minor-league deal. It includes an invite to big-league camp, per source. 27-year-old bounced around minors, had great 2019 at AA and AAA and has 19 relief appearances in minors with Seattle over last two years.
— Chris Cotillo (@ChrisCotillo) January 20, 2021
- Ron Gardenhire’s son has been hired as the manager of the Twins’ Triple-A affiliate.
Apple Doesn't Fall Far From the Tree: Toby Gardenhire Becomes First Manager For Triple-A Saintshttps://t.co/JNM3TYdKTs pic.twitter.com/oyyB3wv6EA
— St. Paul Saints (@StPaulSaints) January 19, 2021
- David Laurila at Fangraphs sat down with Taijuan Walker to discuss the right-hander’s approach to pitching.
- Hall of Fame pitcher Don Sutton passed away at the age of 75.
- The Jays also agreed to a deal with one of the market’s top relievers: right-hander Kirby Yates.
- A division rival managed to bolster its pitching staff.
Free-agent left-hander José Quintana in agreement with the Angels, pending physical, sources tell @TheAthletic.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) January 20, 2021