6. Joe Rizzo, 3B
Birthday (age on opening day 2018): 3/31/1998 (20)
2017 teams/levels played for: low-A Clinton LumberKings, high-A Modesto Nuts
2017 Stats: .251/.349/.344, 501 PA, 7 HR, 3 SB, 64/121 BB/K
Info: One of the big concerns coming out of high school for Rizzo in 2016 was his size at 5’9″. If he moves off of third base, he really has to move up the defensive spectrum, as he really cannot move down the spectrum to first base at his height.
The Seattle Mariners weren’t worried about that, drafting Rizzo in the second round out of high school in New Jersey, and he’s handled his position defensively very well ever since, struggling with some issues of rushing throws, but showing good range and solid instincts at the third base position.
At the plate, Rizzo’s size makes a future as a big power hitter unlikely, but he has a very compact, quick swing that shows above average raw power, though it is best suited for pounding the gaps rather than swinging for over-the-fence power.
Rizzo’s been noted for his struggles with keeping his body in best shape, so he will need to be on top of that as he’s advancing through the Seattle Mariners system, but he should open the 2018 season at high-A at 20 years old, so he is progressing well through the system.
5. Julio Rodriguez, OF
Birthday (age on opening day 2018): 12/29/2000 (17)
2017 teams/levels played for: None
2017 Stats: None
Info: The well-developed 6’3″ 205-220 pound teenager was considered among the top prospects in the entire 2017 July 2nd class, ranked at or near the top 5 in the end after being considered the top talent by multiple places in the winter before the 2017 season.
The Seattle Mariners see Rodriguez as a guy with a right field profile with plus raw power and an above-average arm. His natural swing has easy raw power that could develop into plus-plus power as he ages.
(Rodriguez’s) natural swing has easy raw power that could develop into plus-plus power as he ages
Rodriguez reminded many evaluators of current Chicago White Sox prospect Eloy Jimenez with his easy power but possible bad body issues. Thus far Jimenez has held off any developmental issues that would have caused extra thickness, especially in his lower half, restricting him to DH-only status.
This will be the biggest concern for Rodriguez as he likely gets his pro debut in 2018 in the states, likely opening with the Mariners’ Arizona Rookie League club.
Next: #3 and #4