Mariners Moose Tracks, 1/16/25: Blake Hunt, Blake Sabol, and J.P. France

It was a big day for catchers named Blake who were born in Orange County in 1998.

Good morning everyone! We’ve got a good amount of M’s news and analysis to cover, so let’s get to it.

In Mariners news…

• The Mariners re-acquired catcher Blake Hunt in a deal with the Orioles. Hunt was on the M’s spring training roster last year before being sent to the O’s in May.
• Baseball America provided a scouting report on the Mariners’ 2025 International Signing Day class. ($)
• Beyond just the Ps & Cs report date, we’ve got some more key scheduling info for spring training.

• The Hot Stove Show returned on 710 ESPN Seattle, and Dan Wilson was this episode’s guest where he outlined his goals for spring training.
• The M’s unveiled their coaching staff for this year’s Everett AquaSox.

• Go vote for Cal!

Around the league…

• The Red Sox have acquired catcher Blake Sabol in a minor swap with the Giants.
• Astros right-hander J.P. France is hoping to return from his shoulder injury in July.
• The Texas Rangers are signing a new television streaming deal with local network Victory+.
• The Mariners will play on Sunday Night Baseball on August 17th.

• Russell A. Carleton at Baseball Prospectus wonders what the sport of baseball will do to curtail the mounting injuries among young pitchers. ($)