How have the Seattle Mariners Top Prospects Fared this Spring?

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Feb 26, 2015; Peoria, AZ, USA; Seattle Mariners infielder Patrick Kivlehan poses for a portrait during photo day at Peoria Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

#4 – Patrick Kivlehan – 3B/1B

The Mariners selected Patrick Kivlehan in the fourth round of the 2012 draft out of Rutgers University. Kivlehan is another player who has been on the fast track to the big leagues over the past 12 months. The 25-year-old was a co-winner of the Mariners Minor League player of the year in 2014.

The Mariners are intrigued by Patrick Kivlehan’s potential, and they are giving him plenty of opportunities early in spring training. Kivlehan has appeared in 9 games thus far, and is hitting .294 with 1 double, 1 home run, and 3 RBI’s. He has looked like a mature hitter at the plate, and he has shown good versatility defensively. He has played third base, first base, and left field this spring for the M’s.

Patrick Kivlehan started the 2014 season playing for the High Desert Mavericks of the California League, and earned a mid-season promotion to the Jackson Generals of the Southern League. The 25-year-year old lit up the minor leagues last season, hitting .295 with 20 home runs and 103 RBI’s. He posted a .363 on base percentage and slugged .507. Kivlehan’s numbers actually improved after his promotion, which is a great sign for Seattle and Kivlehan.

While breaking camp with the big club may overly optimistic, I could certainly envision Kivlehan getting a September call-up if he continues to impress the Mariners’ brass. A right-handed hitter with plus power is exactly what Seattle is looking for, thus Kivlehan is a name to keep an eye on in 2015. Kivlehan has the ability to play first base, and the athleticism to play a corner outfield spot, which is something he may have to utilize with All Star third baseman Kyle Seager manning the hot corner for the foreseeable future in Seattle.

Next: Tyler Marlette