7. Dan Vogelbach, 1B
Birthdate: 12/17/92 (24 years old)
Level(s) Played in 2016: AAA, MLB
Stats in 2016: .292/.417/.505, 23 HR (minor league stats only)
Vogelbach has long been on prospect radars as the big first baseman’s powerful left-handed swing first caught notice in the Chicago Cubs system.
With Anthony Rizzo entrenched in front of him, Vogelbach made for a trade chip for the Cubs, and they moved him last season for lefty swing man Mike Montgomery. The Mariners may prove to be the benefactors in that transaction.
(Vogelbach) was still able to control the strike zone well, one of his best attributes as a power hitter
While Vogelbach did not hit as well for Tacoma as he had been hitting for Iowa, he was still able to control the strike zone well, one of his best attributes as a power hitter, as he walked nearly 100 times on the season.
Vogelbach is really not a great defensive first baseman, and he might end up in a DH role long-term, but his lefty power along with his excellent eye would lead to a long career in the middle of the Mariners lineup.
Vogelbach should open 2017 in Seattle as either the outright starter or in a platoon at first base/DH.
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