Mariners Draft Stanford SS Drew Jackson in 5th Round

The Seattle Mariners have selected Drew Jackson in the 5th round (155th pick) of the 2015 MLB Draft. Jackson is a Jr. shortstop at Stanford University. The Mariners have now used 3 of their first 5 picks on players hailing from the Pac-12, as Jackson joins fellow Pac-12 alums Andrew Moore (OSU) and Braden Bishop (UW).

Drew Jackson has great size for a shortstop, standing at 6’2 and weighing 200 lbs. He bats and throws from the right side. The junior is said to possess elite arm strength and a quality glove up the middle. However, there are serious questions about his ability to hit for both average and power at the next level. He is a decent runner, but not a real threat to steal. Jackson was previously drafted by the San Francisco Giants in the 37th round of the 2012 draft, and is the younger brother of former Cubs’ top prospect Brett Jackson.

The Orinda, CA product broke out this spring with the Cardinals. After producing 2 reasonably disappointing seasons in Palo Alto, Jackson hit .320 with 0 home runs, 9 RBI’s and 6 stolen bases across 40 games in 2015. He is a light-hitting middle infielder, and has never left the yard in college. Jackson struggled last summer in the Cape League, hitting just .196 with 1 home run and 6 steals.

Here is the MLB.com prospect profile on Drew Jackson:

This is a highlight reel put together by Stanford of Drew Jackson

There is no question Drew Jackson can play shortstop in the Major Leagues. The issue is whether he can hit enough to get the job done. Jackson is a line drive hitter with a short and compact swing. He makes consistent contact, and knows how to work a count. His arm is incredible, and I think Jackson is a solid pick here for Seattle. He is a very smart young man, and is currently majoring in science, technology and society.

I see a lot of Brendan Ryan in Drew Jackson. They both have similar size, and they both have exceptional skills defensively. Ryan could not hit well enough to stick as an everyday player, but Jackson has more upside at the plate. With his defensive prowess, Jackson will have a great opportunity to move quickly through the Mariners’ system.

Next: Mariners Draft: M's Tab SC HS Pitcher in 4th Round

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