Mariners Minors: Checking in with the Everett AquaSox

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Top prospect Alex Jackson in right field for Everett on August 11th. (Photo Credit: Brian Helberg)

Alex Jackson – RF

The 19-year-old corner outfielder is currently ranked as the Mariners top prospect according to MLB.com. Alex Jackson sure lived up to the hype on Tuesday. AJ absolutely demolished a fastball in the top of the first inning, launching a 2-run shot that landed at least 50 feet beyond the left field wall. He finished 1 for 3 with a home run and a walk.

Simply put, Jackson’s swing is special. It’s quick, compact and ultra-powerful. When Jackson connects, the crack of his bat sounds different.

The Mariners selected Jackson with the 6th overall selection in the 2014 draft, and many have viewed his 2015 season as a failure. After showing well with Seattle in Spring Training, Jackson hit .157 across 28 games in single-A Clinton. Understandably, the M’s demoted him to Everett.

I had a chance to talk toPat Dillon, voice of the AquaSox, and he attributed Jackson’s struggles to a lack of patience at the plate and injuries. However, he is slowly finding his stroke with the AquaSox. Jackson is hitting .277 with 3 home runs and 14 RBI across 27 games.

There is no question Alex Jackson will be patrolling right field at Safeco Field at some point in the near future. However, he is still very raw, and his progression through the M’s system may take a bit longer than many would have hoped. Personally, I consider his skill set to be elite, but patience will be the key for fans and executives.

Next: Corey Simpson