Sodo Mojo’s 2020 MLB Mock Draft, Seattle Mariners edition

Pick 6: Nick Gonzales, 2B New Mexico State

So, yeah I would really like Max Meyer to be a Mariner, if you’ve been reading my reports, you’d know that is the case. I just don’t think he’ll be on the board at six and the best player remaining is Nick Gonzales, so he is the pick. But if you’re reading major disappointment in this selection, you shouldn’t be. Gonzales is a very good selection here.

With arguably the best all-around bat in the class, Gonzales was the best player in college baseball before it was ended by COVID-19. Gonzales has a plus hit grade and already possess average in-game power with plus raw power that was starting to transition to the game as he slugged 12 home runs in just 16 games in 2020.

Gonzales was playing shortstop in 2020, but his future will likely be second base. He lacks the fluidity and hands required to play shortstop but should profile as an average defender at second base with a bat that could carry a third base profile. He isn’t a great athlete but is solidly above-average and carries decent run times in his game.

Gonzales could be the type of bat who flies through the minor leagues and once settled, will likely hit between .280-.300 with 20 home runs and 30 doubles, as well as a .350 OBP and average defense at second. Gonzales could have a 6-10 year run of posting 3+ WAR seasons and has been favorably compared to Brewers infielder Keston Hiura.

If selected, Gonzales would likely fall comfortably into the #4 spot in our prospect ranks, with a strong argument to made that he can jump Logan Gilbert for the #3 spot. Adding a top or middle of the order bat in the first round with an All-Star potential is never a bad thing, so Mariners fans should applaud this selection if it comes to pass.