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

After drafting Washington OF Braden Bishop in the third round of the MLB Draft on Tuesday, the Mariners went back to the hill in round four, selecting South Carolina prep right-hander Dylan Thompson. He’s 6’2 and 180 lbs and touches 93 MPH.

What stands out to me is that Thompson appears to be fairly solid and does everything well, even if nothing spectacular. He’s an attractive draw for the Mariners, who have a reputation (in my opinion) of developing and grooming quality arms. Although Chris Crawford at Baseball Prospectus doesn’t see it as a huge pick:

The velocity readings (as high as 93 MPH) are good to hear, but it’s discouraging to hear that he drops into the upper-80s as the game goes on. If that trend continues at the next level, Thompson could be best suited for a relievers role that allows him to just rare back for an inning at a time.

Furthermore, Thompson needs to get his secondary stuff more consistent. Having a developed changeup at the high school ranks is a good thing, as it’s often the hardest pitch to teach yourself as you get older. If he’s able to harness three quality pitches, that could help him become a back-end starter or a good reliever.

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At 6’2 with a skinny frame, Thompson will definitely add weight and muscle as he matures physically. This type of development could help turn him into a quality pitcher in the Mariners system.

As is the same with yesterday, I’m all for the Mariners adding potential useful arms to the system. If his velocity can increase with age, and he becomes a power arm, I like it even more.

I think Thompson is a good pick, but the 4th round seems like a bit of a reach. But, with the Mariners ability to develop pitching — and the desire to win in the future, I think the Coastal Carolina commit is a decent get.

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Next: Mariners Select Washigton OF Braden Bishop at No. 94?