Statement of the Seattle Mariners on the passing of long-time scout Bill Kearns

SEATTLE -- Seattle Mariners Executive Vice President & General Manager of Baseball Operations Jack Zduriencik issued the following statement today, January 1, on the passing of long-time Mariners scout Bill Kearns:

The Seattle Mariners organization was saddened today to learn that Bill Kearns passed away in his sleep last night at the age of 94. Bill served as a scout for the Mariners since the inception of the franchise in 1976-77, covering the New England region.

Bill was a gentleman, in the finest sense, and represented his family and the Mariners in a first-class manner. And he was an excellent scout, a true ambassador of the Mariners and the game of baseball. Bill was one of the most positive people I have ever met. He will be missed.