Prospect Watch: 3B D.J. Peterson

Happy Friday everyone!

Let’s kick this weekend off with a look at the red hot D.J. Peterson, the number 2 prospect in the Mariners farm system according to MLB.com.

The second year man out of University of New Mexico has been on a tear this year in Class A Advanced, hopefully showing fans signs of whats to come in the near future.

The Mariners had originally drafted the young man out of high school in the 33rd round of the 2010 draft. After turning down the 6 figure signing bonus, D.J. signed a letter of intent to play for the University of Arizona.

According to a report by USA Today, it that it was a lack of effort in base running during summer ball in 2010 that caused the Wildcats to release Peterson’s letter of intent, which is why he ended up playing for the Lobos.

None the less, the Seattle Mariners were more than happy to be able to select him 12th overall in the 2013 draft. His decision to go to college and develop his game further paid off ten fold, earning him a $2.7 million dollar signing bonus. Lesson learned here, stay in school kids.. it pays off.

The young 3rd baseman had much success in college and was arguably the best hitter in the 2013 draft. He posted a ridiculous, triple slash of .408/.520/.807 right near or at the top of the NCAA leader board his junior year.

His numbers were consistent to his powerful swing and ability to put the bat on the ball quick and in a hurry. The Mariners fell in love with his bat speed and above average arm. His fielding percentage his junior year for New Mexico was .989 with only 4 errors.

Peterson played 55 games as a professional in 2013 between Everett and Clinton, showing the Mariners exactly what they wanted to see with 13 home runs and 47 RBIs. D.J.’s career took a stumble in August as he took an errant pitch to the jaw, an injury that ended up requiring surgery.

Despite the injury, Peterson was ready to go this year, starting off the season in with the High Desert Mavericks. Through 44 games, D.J. has 10 home runs (5 in the last 6 games) and 44 RBIs. As he moves up through the M’s system, he must show more patience at the plate. His 43 strikeouts through 44 games are a bit concerning.

Should Justin Smoak worry about D.J. Peterson taking his job? Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

It is still unclear as to where Peterson fits in defensively for the Mariners. 3rd base is already locked up by Kyle Seager. I think it is safe that he will make the transition to 1st base permanently. Defensively he will not be good enough to beat out Seager but offensively he is too good to keep him in hiding.

Justin Smoak should be nervous.

I would not be shocked if this guy is in Triple A Tacoma before the end of the season. His bat alone gives him All Star potential at the big league level. See you soon, D.J..