Mike Zunino, Seattle Mariners
Who Is He?
Zunino probably has the biggest pedigree on this list, but he’s already failed at the major league level and gone back this year to remake himself. After being the 3rd overall selection in the 2012 draft, Zunino found himself in AAA in 2013 and the starter for the big league club at 2014. The problem is that the highly regarded bat really never materialized.
Now he’s gone back to the minor leagues to not only address his offensive approach, but also to address his defensive approach. He’s definitely done that as he’s always rated well as a framer, but he’s struggled with other defensive metrics previously, but he’s grading well this season so far.
He’s already receiving notice for the big power he’s showing at AAA Tacoma, but the notable difference in his approach is that his 33-34% strikeout rate in the majors and even AAA previously versus the 17% strikeout rate he’s showing now. He could work his way back to the majors this year or be a big trading chip for the Mariners as they make a playoff push this year.