Grading the Seattle Mariners' last 5 first-round draft picks

The MLB Draft has become one of the most important tools in the Seattle Mariners’ team-building strategy, especially for a front office that prides itself on developing homegrown talent. With a payroll that doesn’t always compete with the league’s top spenders, Seattle’s ability to draft and develop has been key to sustaining competitiveness — and in recent years, the club has mostly delivered.

Since 2020, the Mariners have made several notable first-round picks, with mixed but largely positive results. They have added a variety of talent, selecting a pair of college pitchers as well as a few high school bats that are regarded as some of the better prospects in the game.

While not every pick has turned into a star, the Mariners have built a solid foundation through the draft. If they continue to develop this wave of talent, the franchise’s long-term outlook remains bright.

Mariners 2020 MLB Draft, 6th overall: Emerson Hancock, RHP

When the Mariners took Emerson Hancock sixth overall in 2020, it looked like a steal. He was once in the mix to go No. 1 overall and brought a polished SEC résumé with frontline potential. But four years later, Hancock has fallen far short of expectations.

His stuff has been underwhelming, with a low-90s fastball and inconsistent secondaries that don’t miss bats. Injuries slowed his development, but even when healthy, he hasn’t shown the dominance expected from a top 10 arm. At this point, he looks like a fringe No. 5 starter at best.

The only reason this pick earns a D+ instead of a failing grade is because Hancock has provided the Mariners with serviceable innings during times of injury. He’s eaten some starts without being a total liability, but that’s a far cry from the ace potential he once had. For a team that’s drafted well in other years, this one stands out as a clear miss.

Grade: D+

Mariners 2021 MLB Draft, 12th overall: Harry Ford, C

Drafting a high school catcher is one of the riskiest bets in the draft, but the Mariners nailed it with Harry Ford at No. 12 in 2021. Despite a tough 2024 season at Double-A, Ford has bounced back in a big way in 2025 and looks nearly big league ready.

He’s shown advanced plate discipline, emerging power, and athleticism that’s rare for the position. Even when the bat wasn’t clicking, he continued to draw walks and control the zone — traits that have kept him ranked as a top prospect throughout his climb.

Ford’s long-term fit in Seattle remains uncertain with Cal Raleigh entrenched behind the plate, but his bat and versatility could force the issue. Whether it’s with the Mariners or in a trade, he’s positioned to impact a major league roster soon.

Considering the volatility of high school catchers, Ford’s development has been impressive and steady. He hasn’t quite turned into a franchise-altering star, but this pick has aged very well.

Grade: B+

Mariners 2022 MLB Draft, 21st overall: Cole Young, SS

The Mariners hit on their 2022 first-round pick with Cole Young, taking him 21st overall and watching him rise quickly through the system. He’s consistently adjusted to tougher pitching at every level, and now he’s showing he belongs in the big leagues.

While his MLB debut started slow, Young ended June with a .318 average to show for his last 18 appearances for the month. He doesn’t strike out much, makes consistent contact, and plays solid defense — exactly the kind of steady, high-IQ player every contender needs in the middle infield.

After years of shuffling through second base options, it looks like the Mariners have finally found a long-term solution. He may not have star-level flash, but Young’s advanced approach, reliability, and fast development make this pick a clear win.

Grade: A-

Mariners 2023 MLB Draft, 22nd overall: Colt Emerson, SS

Landing Colt Emerson at No. 22 in the 2023 draft already looks like a major win for the Mariners. He’s consistently ranked inside the top 20 prospects in baseball and has earned glowing reviews for his maturity, approach, and all-around game.

Emerson shows an advanced hit tool with a high floor, and his ability to handle shortstop defensively has been a pleasant surprise. While he’s not a big home run threat yet, he’s driving the ball with authority — racking up doubles and showing signs that more power could come as he matures.

For a late first-round pick, Emerson has the upside of a perennial All-Star at a premium position. His bat-to-ball skills, discipline, and steady development have him on track for a potential big-league debut as soon as 2026. For a franchise that values draft-and-develop success, this pick is shaping up to be one of their best in recent years

Grade: A

Mariners 2024 MLB Draft, 15th overall: Jurrangelo Cijntje, P

The Mariners made a bold and intriguing pick in 2024 by selecting switch-pitcher Jurrangelo Cijntje 15th overall. The talent is undeniable — especially from the right side, where he’s been dominant with legit starter potential. But from the left side, the results have been poor, and it’s clear he’s much less polished.

Cijntje is still fairly raw overall, and continuing to develop as a switch-pitcher could slow his progression. If he eventually commits fully to pitching right-handed, his development could accelerate and this pick might look much better in a year or two.

For now, it’s a mixed bag. The right-handed upside is real, but the experiment on the left side holds him back. Still, there’s enough talent here to justify the pick — and if the Mariners can help him streamline his path, this grade could rise quickly.

Grade: B-