4. Logan Gilbert
Minors (A, A+, AA): 135 innings, 10-5 record, 0.948 WHiP, 33 walks, 165 strikeouts
Stetson University may never be considered a hotbed of baseball talent, but it has produced Corey Kluber and Jacob deGrom. The Seattle Mariners are hoping that Logan Gilbert can follow in those footsteps.
Selected with the 14th overall selection in the 2018 MLB Draft, Gilbert became the highest draft pick in the history of the university. He actually fell to the Mariners, as he pitched through mono during his junior season, leading to an up and down campaign. He did not pitch at all after being drafted, but made up for lost time with a dominant 2019 campaign, advancing through three levels.
Gilbert has a solid four pitch mix, and when healthy, has displayed an ability to command his repertoire. His fastball sits in the mid 90s, and has been clocked at 98 MPH when he reaches back for a little extra. He has a hard slider and a decent curve, with the slider having the potential to be a second plus offering. Gilbert’s change has been effective as well, with solid separation in velocity from the heater.
Given his overall stuff and impressive ability to throw strikes, it would not be much of a surprise if Gilbert continues to advance rapidly through the Mariners system. After making just nine AA appearances last year, it would not be a surprise if he started the season back in Arkansas. However, a quick start to the year could lead to a promotion to AAA, and possibly a look at the majors by the end of the upcoming season.
Logan Gilbert was the highest player drafted in the history of Stetson University. Now, he is looking to follow in the footsteps of a pair of very impressive alumni.