Seattle Mariners top ten prospects for 2020
By David Hill
2. Julio Rodriguez
Minors (A, A+): 367 plate appearances, .326/.390/.540, 26 doubles, 12 homers, 25 walks, 76 strikeouts
Of all the players in the Seattle Mariners system, none may have a higher ceiling than Julio Rodriguez. However, none of their top prospects may have a lower floor.
Considered one of the top ten international prospects in the 2018-19 signing period, the Mariners struck quickly to secure his services, inking him to a $1.75 Million signing bonus. After an impressive debut in the Dominican Summer League, the 18 year old was brought stateside and challenged in full season ball.
Although he missed time due to a hairline fracture in his left hand, Rodriguez showed the tools that made him such a highly regarded prospect. He has incredible raw power, and as his body matured, Rodriguez was able to tap into that power even more last season. With his advanced approach at the plate, he has the ceiling of being a power laden run producer in the middle of the Mariners lineup.
Yet, there is risk with Rodriguez. The biggest concern is that he will continue to expand, going from a muscular power hitter to someone that could eat themselves out of the game. However, he also has displayed a great deal of maturity, which should allow him to reach that potential.
If Julio Rodriguez pans out, the Seattle Mariners will have a star in one of their corner outfield spots. If not, he could end up being a minor league legend, but one who can never make the jump to the majors.