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Mariners 2018 MLB Draft Profile: Trevor Larnach

By Colby Patnode

SEATTLE, WA - SEPTEMBER 30: GM Jerry Dipoto of the Seattle Mariners looks on from the dugout prior to the game against the Houston Astros at Safeco Field on September 30, 2015 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images)
SEATTLE, WA - SEPTEMBER 30: GM Jerry Dipoto of the Seattle Mariners looks on from the dugout prior to the game against the Houston Astros at Safeco Field on September 30, 2015 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images) /
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Yesterday, we looked at the most common pitcher linked to your Seattle Mariners, Ryan Rolison. Today, we will look at the most common hitter linked to Seattle, Oregon State OF, Trevor Larnach.

It feels like a new prominent mock draft is dropping daily. It also feels like everyone has the Mariners taking Trevor Larnach. As is usually the case, college performers for premier programs tend to rise on draft boards throughout the process. Larnach is no exception.

After posting a solid .303/.421/.429 as a sophomore, Larnach went to the Cape Cod League and dominated. He slashed .308/.390/.442 in the All-Star league, showing more pop than in the past. Larnach has always had a nice swing and solid approach, so most scouts thought the power would come. In 2018, it arrived with authority.

Larnach is slashing .324/.447/.637 with 17 home runs in 55 games. The power surge has placed Larnach squarely into the first round conversation. Very few hitters can boast Larnach hit tool, and with the power finally, here, he might boast the best all-around hit tool in the class.

With all that in mind, why am I so hesitant to celebrate this pick? Well, Larnach has to hit to be valuable to a big league club. He has well below average speed. His defense can be described as average at best. He has a nice arm, but nothing to write home about.

My concern is that if Larnach bat only hits at 80% his ceiling, the Mariners will have spent a first-round pick on Seth Smith. Now don’t misunderstand me, Seth Smith is a fine player who has carved out a good career. But is that really an exciting first round comp? No.

Personally, Larnach is my Ryan Rolison of this group. Would the Mariners farm system be better with Larnach in it? Yes. Would it be a good pick? Probably. But is it a pick that would pump me up? No.

Scouting Grades (20-80)- Hit: 60 Power: 55 Run: 40 Field: 45 Arm: 55 Overall: 50

Next: 3 Draft Sleepers For Mariners Fans to Watch

The MLB Draft is on Monday, and if I was a betting man, I’d imagine the Mariners will take Larnach with the 14th pick.

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