What happened: Jason Kanzler is the Mariners' new manager, a source confirmed to Chandler Rome. @DKramer_ reported first that Seattle was in the process of hiring him, citing multiple sources to MLB.com.

Why it matters: The hire fills the Mariners' managerial vacancy after a search that, per earlier coverage, centered on Kanzler and Joe Espada. Seattle had already hired CJ Gillman as hitting coach on Oct. 30, leaving the manager's chair as the main open piece of the staff.

What to watch: A formal announcement from the club would make the hire official.