Seattle Mariners 3 Round Mock Draft 1.0

With the 85th Pick in the 2018 MLB Draft, the Seattle Mariners select Tarik Skubal, LHP Seattle University

The Mariners don’t have to go far to scout this left-handed pitcher. They also don’t have to dream that hard on a guy like Tarik Skubal. He began turning heads in 2016, striking out 50 hitters in 42.2 innings pitched in just 8 starts. Unfortunately, Skubal needed Tommy John surgery and missed the entire 2017 season to rehab his injury.

Prior to the injury, Skubal was hitting 97 MPH from a 3/4 arm slot. In his return from TJ surgery, Skubal has struggled mightily with his control. Skubal is averaging over 8 walks per nine innings in 2018.

However, in his 8 starts in 2016, Skubal was walking just 3.59 BB/9. The recent rash of walks can be easily chalked up to a pitcher still recovering from major surgery. However, he is still missing a ton of bats, averaging 12.48 K/9 in 2018.

Skubal flashes a solid-average curveball, but his changeup lags behind both pitches. Even before the injury, his command was below-average. There is still a lot of work to be done by Skubal, but drafting him here could become an excellent value.

If Skubal can improve his command grade and his changeup, he could be a solid #3 starter with good upside. If the changeup doesn’t come along, Skubal can still serve as a high-leverage reliever with an improvement in his command.

Next: 5 Most Valuable Mariners Trade Assets

Scouting Grade (20-80)- Fastball: 60 Curveball: 50 Changeup: 40 Control: 45 Overall: 45

There you have it, our first MLB Mock Draft. As we get closer to draft day, we will be able to further lock down on the Mariners strategy. Until then, the Mariners are playing decent baseball, and take on the Cleveland Indians today.