On a day when a large number of players become free agents when they are not tendered with contracts for the upcoming season, the Mariners sign All-Star 3B Kyle Seager to a seven-year deal worth $100 million.

Veteran major league umpire and crew chief Dale Scott openly acknowledges his homosexuality, as he is featured in a magazine article with his long-time life partner. The reaction from baseball circles is overwhelmingly positive.