Endy Chavez and Humberto Quintero Released by Mariners

"Mar 22, 2014; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Seattle Mariners outfielder (9) stretches in the dugout prior to the game against the Oakland Athletics at Phoenix Municipal Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports Endy Chavez"

Today the Mariners technically released non-roster invitees Endy Chavez (outfield) and Humberto Quintero (catcher). Both played for the Mariners last season, and hoped to be in the mix again this year.

The reason for their release is explained in a tweet by the Seattle Time’s Ryan Divish:

So as of this moment the move is a money-saving one. By letting Quintero and Chavez go, they are saving a chunk of change that will be spent on– let’s be honest who knows what will happen with that money. Maybe it’ll go into the tip jar that’s paying for Robinson Cano.

This move means two things: first, there are now only 29 active players on the Mariners Spring Training roster.

And secondly, the outfield is all but set for Opening Day. Expect Dustin Ackley in left, Abraham Almonte in center, and Michael Saunders in right. With Stefen Romero as the fourth outfielder. Corey Hart is being nagged by little injuries, and skipper Lloyd McClendon says he will be playing DH more than anything else.

All that’s left is the last two spots in the rotation and the filling out of the bullpen.

Six days from Opening Day. So close you can smell it.

Just keep your eyes out for Chavez or Quintero staying with the Mariners in the Minor Leagues. It would be huge if Endy stays, because he will be an asset when injuries inevitably come.