Mariners Position Battle Update: Backup CF/ 5th Outfielder

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Oct. 14, 2014; Mesa, AZ, USA; Oakland Athletics outfielder Boog Powell plays for the Mesa Solar Sox during an Arizona Fall League game against the Scottsdale Scorpions at Salt River Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Oct. 14, 2014; Mesa, AZ, USA; Oakland Athletics outfielder Boog Powell plays for the Mesa Solar Sox during an Arizona Fall League game against the Scottsdale Scorpions at Salt River Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Boog Powell

Boog Powell was a part of the very first transaction that Jerry Dipoto manufactured this offseason. He was also the first outfielder that Dipoto acquired, who kickstarted the reformation of a more Safeco-centric outfield defense. His ability to control the zone and his speed has been on display thus far in the Cactus League, and he has been impressive to watch in center field. Powell is hitting .250 with 2 RBI and 1 stolen bases through 8 games this spring.

The Mission Viejo, CA native has put together quite an impressive resume during his time in the minor-leagues, including a career .410 OBP. Especially notable was his 2015 campaign, splitting time between Class AA and AAA, Powell slashed .295/.385/.392. He’s 23 and offers a pretty unique skill set to the team. Powell has the aforementioned stellar on-base percentage, good plate discipline (a.k.a controlling the zone), and excellent speed on the base paths.

Powell, who still has three options remaining, more than likely will start the season in Tacoma with the Rainiers. However, he’s already a well-received clubhouse personality and is more than just a contingency plan in center field. Boog is a tailor made player for the new style of these Seattle Mariners, and we hopefully will see him as a mid-season call up.

Next: Shawn O'Malley hopes to return to Safeco Field this spring