Mariners News: 2 players to know in 1st round of spring training roster cuts

The Seattle Mariners' spring training has been marked by notable developments, particularly among their pitching staff.

Logan Gilbert, a key figure in the Mariners' rotation, has introduced a new curveball dubbed "Big Mike," aiming to add more depth to his repertoire. This addition reflects Gilbert's continuous evolution and dedication to improvement. 

Similarly, Bryce Miller has been expanding his arsenal by incorporating a cutter. Miller showcased this new pitch in his first spring start, effectively utilizing six different pitches and demonstrating his versatility on the mound. George Kirby has flown under the radar as well, developing a cutter in hopes of keeping left-handed hitters off balance.

While the established pitchers have stolen the show, some of Seattle's top prospects have showcased just how talented this system truly is. Lazaro Montes has shown his elite offensive profile with some loud contact, while Cole Young looks to have added some surprising pop.

As the Mariners look to narrow down their spring roster, the team made its first round of cuts (Zac Hereth of Seattle Sports is on it) during spring training, reassigning several interesting players while releasing right-handed pitcher Dauris Valdez. Valdez wasn't a surprising cut, yet the reassignment of the five younger players includes two intriguing names fans should know.

Hunter Cranton offers Seattle a future high-leverage bullpen arm

Hunter Cranton might be one of the most exciting pure reliever prospects in baseball. Seeing his size and repertoire, it's easy to see this guy becoming a future eighth- or ninth-inning guy. Standing at 6-foot-3 and 215 pounds, he is physically imposing on the mound. The Mariners took a cost saving approach in the 2024 MLB Draft by selecting the 24-year-old right-hander with their third-round pick.

His fastball is nothing short of sensational, sitting in the upper 90s and touching triple digits.  Cranton pairs his elite fastball with a wicked slider that keeps hitters off balance. His unique long-arm delivery adds an extra layer of deception, making him a nightmare for opposing batters. In his debut season with the Single-A Modesto Nuts, he struck out 14 batters over 8.1 innings.

Health permitting, what should excite fans is the likelihood that Cranton will be in Seattle at some point this year. Most prospects take years to break into the big league level, but Cranton is near big league ready. Given his advanced skill set and the Mariners' track record of developing top-tier pitchers, fans shouldn't be surprised if Cranton arrives to solidify the bullpen and provide that shutdown arm the Mariners been craving in high-pressure situations.

Josh Caron is another early draft pick that could become a solid catcher

Josh Caron is the Mariners second ranked catching prospect behind Harry Ford. Seattle selected the Nebraska product in the fourth round of the 2024 MLB Draft. Coming into the draft, the 6-foot, 215-pound catcher possessed a solid offensive profile with defensive tools that the Mariners liked.

In his final college season in 2024, he hit .308 with 16 home runs and 65 RBI, proving he can hit for power and average. In his first season of professional ball, he spent the year with Modesto, where he posted an impressive slash line of .277/.352/.383 with one home run and 10 RBI in 13 games.

In 2024, Caron's grades at MLB.com included a 45-grade hit tool, 50-grade power, 55-grade arm, and 45-grade field. It illustrates what a fourth-round catching prospect gives you: one or two intriguing tools and other room for improvement. Caron has the ability to be a solid defensive catcher with above average pop and an average hit tool.

As Caron continues in the minor leagues, fans should keep an eye out on the development of his defensive and offensive profile. Caron may not ascend to stardom like Cal Raleigh, but he has the tools to become a solid backup catcher with above average power (can I interest you in a future similar to Tom Murphy?). In the meantime, don't be surprised if the 21-year-old ends the year at Double-A Arkansas.