Mariners Analysis: M’s Former 1st Round Picks, Where are they Now?

May 12, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners catcher Mike Zunino (3) shakes hands with manager Lloyd McClendon (23) following the final out of an 11-4 victory against the San Diego Padres at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

2012: Mike Zunino – C – University of Florida – Pick 3

Mike Zunino is perhaps the most successful 1st round selection of the Zduriencik tenure. Zunino drew comparisons to Jason Varitek when he was at the University of Florida, and was an obvious pick for the Mariners in 2012.

Zunino raced through the minor leagues, appearing in just 96 games before getting called up to Seattle. He slashed .286/.365/.571 across 419 plate appearances on the farm. Zunino has quickly become a key player for the Mariners, even if his offensive numbers leave plenty to be desired. The 24-year-old backstop has combined to hit .196 with 34 home runs and 89 RBI’s over 234 games in the Major Leagues.

In his first full season as a big leaguer, Mike Zunino hit .199 with 22 home runs and 60 RBI’s over the course of 131 games in 2014. Zunino also played superb defense, posting a .995 fielding percentage and threw out 28% of potential base stealers. Most importantly of all, he did a wonderful job working with the Mariners’ pitching staff.

Fans have been very hard on Zunino for his offensive struggles, and rightfully so. However, before hurling insults at the young man, we must first consider the context. Zunino has been a great hitter his entire life. The only time he has experienced difficulties is in the Major Leagues. He is attempting to make adjustments at the highest level while also playing the most demanding position defensively. That is not an easy task for a young player. It is not an excuse of this dismal offensive performance, but it is worth noting.

I think Zunino will figure things out at the plate soon enough. Much like a young Yadier Molina, I don’t care how much he hits, Zunino should be behind the plate every night for Seattle. He is by far the best catcher the M’s have had since Dan Wilson, and if fans can be patient with him, I expect Zunino to make more than a few All Star teams before he hangs up his cleats.

Next: D.J. Peterson