Seattle Mariners Promote Mike Zunino

Top prospect Mike Zunino has been called up by the Mariners, making him the first position player to reach the Majors from the 2012 Draft. (Image Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports)

Entering the season there were a handful of top prospects in the Seattle Mariners’ system that experts believed could make their debuts for the team this year. It would seem that the time has come for one of those anticipated arrivals, as the team has recalled catcher Mike Zunino from Triple-A Tacoma according to Larry Stone of The Seattle Times.

Taken 3rd overall in the 2012 Draft, Zunino has struggled at the plate this year in his first experience at Triple-A. He’s hit .238/.303/.503 in 208 PA, adding 11 HR and 12 2B. He may have some holes in his swing that could be worked out with some added time in the minor leagues, but otherwise all indications seem to suggest that he’s ready to join the Mariners lineup. Defensively he’s solid and scouts have suggested that Zunino’s ability to manage the game from behind the plate will be an immediate asset. It will be interesting to see how quickly he can adapt with a bat in his hand, but long term (and with some further development) he’s expected to be a strong offensive option.

The team’s catchers have combined to hit just .202/.276/.322 on the year. Zunino may not have yet earned the callup but he should be an upgrade over the production the team has been receiving at the position.

Zunino is the only position player from the 2012 Draft to reach Triple-A, let alone reach the Major Leagues, but is not the first player from his draft class to make their MLB Debut. Kevin Gausman and Michael Wacha, both pitchers, have already debuted this season and were also taken in the 1st Round that year.