Drayer’s Notebook: Mariners set spring invites, add LHP with local ties

With spring training right around the corner, the Mariners have announced their list of non-roster invitees.

M’s Odds & Ends: Uniform notes, Julio Rodríguez snub

It is a large group as replacements will be needed when the World Baseball Classic claims a number of Mariners players, pulling them from camp starting March 7, with those who participate in the finals not returning until after March 21.

The Mariners’ list of 32 invitees includes many familiar names and faces with some who have played for the Mariners in the past and other notables who have yet to debut, including eight of Seattle’s top 30 prospects according to MLB Pipeline.

“Our group of spring invitees offer us an exciting mix of top prospects and experienced players who have the potential to make an immediate impact,” general manager Justin Hollander said in a press release. “This group is a great complement to our Major League roster in spring camp.”

We have invited 32 non-roster players to Major League Spring Training. #SeaUsRise

🔗 https://t.co/D3Pk9kqume pic.twitter.com/QC18pQTw45

— Seattle Mariners (@Mariners) January 31, 2023

Mariners top prospect Harry Ford will make his first appearance on the big league side of camp, as will right-handed starter Bryce Miller, who opened eyes at Double-A and ranks high on the organization’s internal depth chart.

Of the 32 invitees, 27 spent time in Seattle’s organization in 2022, with seven players appearing in at least one game.

Mariners notes

• In addition to announcing the invitees, the M’s made a roster move Tuesday, claiming left-handed pitcher Tayler Saucedo from the Mets, who had claimed him off waivers on Nov. 9 from the Blue Jays.

Selected out of Tennessee Wesleyan University in the 21st round of the 2015 draft, the 29-year-old Saucedo began his college career at Tacoma Community College, having attended Tahoma High School in Maple Valley.

Saucedo made 33 appearances with the Blue Jays from 2021-22, accumulating a 5.40 ERA.

To make room on the 40-man roster, right-handed pitcher J.B. Bukauskas was designated for assignment.

• The Mariners’ 2023 schedule is now complete as MLB announced all remaining start times Tuesday. The complete schedule can be found on Mariners.com.

• Gary Hill and Aaron Goldsmith will host the Mariners Hot Stove show Tuesday night from 7-9 p.m. on Seattle Sports 710 AM. Guests will include Logan Gilbert, pitching coach Pete Woodworth and assistant general manager Andy McKay.

Lifelong Mariners fan Cooper Hummel has built career on defying cynics