Mariners Analysis: Top 5 First Round Picks in M’s History

Apr 8, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners former outfielder Ken Griffey, Jr. is introduced during a pre game ceremony honoring his selection to the baseball hall of fame before a game against the Oakland Athletics at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 8, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners former outfielder Ken Griffey, Jr. is introduced during a pre game ceremony honoring his selection to the baseball hall of fame before a game against the Oakland Athletics at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports /
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Aug 11, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Baltimore Orioles center fielder Adam Jones (10) watches his two-run homer against the Seattle Mariners during the eighth inning at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 11, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Baltimore Orioles center fielder Adam Jones (10) watches his two-run homer against the Seattle Mariners during the eighth inning at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports /

#5 – Adam Jones – CF – Rd. 1 Pick 37 in 2003

The five-tool outfielder broke into the big leagues in 2006 with the Seattle Mariners. Adam Jones was widely regarded as one of the top prospects in baseball, but he struggled with the bat in the Emerald City. Jones spent two seasons with the Mariners, hitting a meager .230 with 3 home runs and 12 RBI across 73 games.

Jack Zduriencik’s first significant move as General Manager was to trade Jones, Chris Tillman, George Sherrill, Kam Mickolio and Tony Butler to the Baltimore Orioles for Erik Bedard. This move is considered one of the worst trades in Mariners’ history, as Jones and Tillman became impact players with the O’s.

Jones has slashed .279/.319/.464 with 194 home runs, 652 RBI and 79 stolen bases through 9 seasons in Baltimore. He has represented the Orioles at five All-Star games and has been awarded with four Gold Gloves for his work in center field.

There is a good chance Adam Jones will be the M’s third best first round selection when he retires.

Next: Number 4