Seattle Mariners Top 2 Draft Picks Jackson and Morgan Impress In Debuts

The Seattle Mariners top 2 draft picks Alex Jackson and Gareth Morgan were impressive in their MLB debuts last night as the Peoria Mariners beat the Peoria Padres 10-8.

Jackson, the no. 6 overall pick in the draft this year, went 2-4 with a triple, a run, a walk and two RBIs. He struck out twice as well. Not a bad way to start off your career.

6’2″-215 pound Jackson, labeled as one of the best hitters in this draft, was primarily a catcher in high school but is expected to switch to the outfield. Last night he served as the teams designated hitter. It will be interesting to see how long it will be before he is given a chance in the outfield for the Peoria Mariners.

Jackson was not the only Seattle draft pick to make his pro debut last night.

Aug 24, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; American catcher

(10) connects with the ball during the 2013 Under Armour All-American Baseball game at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Reid Compton-USA TODAY Sports

The Mariners selected Gareth Morgan 74th overall in the 2nd round. Morgan was batting fifth and played in right field. He was 1-3 with 2 walks, a run and 3 RBIs.

They both got off to a hot start contributing run scoring singles in the 1st inning, Jackson driving in one and Morgan knocking in two shortly after.

Both players signed hefty contracts and were paid way over slot value. Alex Jackson was given $4.2 million and Gareth Morgan a wopping $2.2 million. The assigned pick value for the number 6 pick was in the area of $3.5 million and the pick value for the number 74 pick was $760,300.

So what does that mean?

It tells me that the Mariners wanted these two guys in their farm system right away. The money given up front was a vote of confidence by the M’s front office that coming to the major level and skipping college is going to be the best way they can improve and shape their game.