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

Mar 15, 2015; Peoria, AZ, USA; Seattle Mariners third baseman D.J. Peterson (46) bats against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Peoria Sports Complex. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

2013: D.J. Peterson – 3B – University of New Mexico – Pick 12

D.J. Peterson is another Zduriencik pick that was lauded on draft night. Peterson is a corner infielder with big time power, and has shown a consistent ability to hit everywhere he has been.

The 23-year-old was named the co-player of the year in the Mariners’ system for 2014 after hitting .297 with 31 home runs and 111 RBI’s across 123 games split between High Desert and Jackson. Peterson represented the M’s at last season’s Futures Game in Minneapolis, and showed well this spring in Peoria.

Unfortunately, Peterson has struggled mightily this season with the Generals. Peterson is hitting .202 with 2 home runs and 22 RBI’s. He has registered a .287 on base percentage and slugged a measly .288. These are not the type of numbers the Mariners’ front office were hoping for from their future first baseman.

I had originally thought D.J. Peterson would end the season with the Rainiers in Tacoma, but now I am less confident. Peterson entered the season ranked by MLB.com as the 50th best prospect in baseball, and I still have high hopes for the Gilbert, AZ product. If he can get things turned around at the plate, look for Peterson to make his debut in Seattle sometime during next season.

Next: Alex Jackson