5. Jake Fraley
Minors (AA, AAA): 427 plate appearances, .298/.365/.545, 27 doubles, 19 homers, 22 steals, 34 walks, 89 strikeouts
Majors: 41 plate appearances, .150/.171/.200, two doubles, zero walks, 14 strikeouts
A somewhat overlooked part of the Mallex Smith for Mike Zunino swap, Jake Fraley could end up being the best piece in that trade.
Fraley impressed at LSU, looking the part of a future center fielder and a possible leadoff hitter. He was eventually selected in the second round by the Rays, part of the Competitive Balance Round B. It was that athleticism that drew the Mariners attention as they have looked to remake their roster.
At this point, Fraley has answered most of the questions about him at the minor league level. He has displayed an ability to drive the ball, particularly when he pulls the ball. Farley has excellent speed and range, which bodes well for him to remain in center. He will need to learn how to work the count and get on base in the majors, but he does have the type of profile that should allow him to do so.
Right now, the biggest question mark about Fraley is his ability to remain healthy. He had not appeared in more than 66 games in a season a profession prior to this year, and still missed time with lower body and thumb injuries.
If Jake Fraley can add a bit more pop, the Seattle Mariners may have a Johnny Damon type of player. Otherwise, he might be a fourth outfielder that intrigues when he plays, but never seems to quite put all the pieces together.