Top Mariners Prospect Re-Rank: #10 Braden Bishop
As we re-rank our preseason Top 10 Prospects, we begin with what will not be a shock to Mariners fans. Bishop is a well known prospect, but fans will soon become enamored with the young outfielder.
Braden Bishop is a 23 year old Mariners prospect who plays center field with the Advanced-A Modesto Nuts. Bishop, a third round pick out of the University of Washington in 2015. After a great debut in the 2015 Northwest League, Bishop struggled in Advanced A ball in 2016, and was forced to repeat the level to start 2017.
However; it appears Bishop is just weeks away from a promotion to AA Arkansas. Bishop is slashing .313/.412/.413 in Modesto, and was named to the league’s All-Star team where he went 4-4 in the game, winning the games MVP.
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Bishop’s offensive tool is his speed, where he has been successful on 13 of 17 attempts. If Bishop can continue his growth at the plate, he could be a potential top of the order catalyst in the big leagues. Major doubts remain if he will reach that plateau.
If he doesn’t reach his offensive potential, Bishop’s defense could carry him to the big leagues. He is a plus defender in center. He gets great jumps, and take efficient routes to run down most fly balls in his area. Bishop has a strong and accurate arm to compliment his defense.
The Mariners actually have solid outfield depth in the organization, so there is no clear path to the majors for Bishop. He could be a nice trade chip out the deadline. His defense and speed alone get him a high floor as a 4th outfielder.
Related Story: Mariners Minors: Braden Bishop - Center Fielder - Modesto
Bishop’s comp could be similar to Denard Span or Jarrod Dyson. A hard worker both on and off the field, Bishop also raises money for Alzheimer research charities.