ORIOLES AND MARINERS MAKE THREE-PLAYER TRADE
The Seattle Mariners acquired pitcher Mike Baumann and catcher Michael Perez from the Baltimore Orioles for catcher Blake Hunt.
What does it give the Seattle Mariners
Baumann, a right-handed reliever, is the lone player in this deal who may immediately join the MLB roster. He has managed an impressive sub-4.00 ERA in over 80 innings the past two seasons, despite struggles with walks and only average strikeout ability. The 28-year-old could be due for some regression, but he should get a shot in middle relief in Seattle's bullpen. Veteran catcher Perez will provide depth in the minors, as the Mariners sent a catcher the other way in this transaction.
What does it give the Baltimore Orioles
Baltimore had just designated Baumann for assignment, so they were at least able to get a prospect in return after including Perez in the trade. Hunt, a 25-year-old catcher, has developed well in the minors and had been enjoying a strong season in Triple-A ball (batting .293 with four home runs and only 10 strikeouts in 75 at-bats). Hunt is already on the 40-man roster and could soon push for the backup catcher role behind Orioles superstar Adley Rutschman, but James McCann is in his way..
Fantasy impact
These players will be useful for their new organizations, but none of them are likely to fill roles with much fantasy value. At best, Baumann could nab a few holds in Seattle's bullpen this season. Hunt and Perez are depth catchers at this point.
