With all the excitement over All-Star Week, it’s easy to miss the fact that Sunday begins the MLB Draft, which, in addition to taking place in the Mariners’ own backyard, is also probably the most important draft of Jerry Dipoto’s tenure. Having graduated a wave of prospects that includes Julio Rodríguez, Jarred Kelenic, Cal Raleigh, Logan Gilbert, George Kirby, Bryce Miller, and other young players impacting the club at the big-league level, the Mariners also have a new wave rising headlined by Harry Ford, with Felnin Celesten heading up the wave behind him.
In this draft, the Mariners can accent any phase of these waves they wish, as this draft is deep with both polished college performers who can impact the team in the short-term and prep talent that could accent those upcoming waves.