Mariners 1st-rounder from 2025 MLB Draft is already lighting up the minors

The Seattle Mariners surprised many when they rolled the dice on catcher Luke Stevenson with the 35th overall pick in the 2025 MLB Draft. It felt like a bold, savvy move; especially with trade rumors swirling around top catching prospect Harry Ford at the time. Ford ultimately remained in the Mariners’ farm system, but early signs are already showing why Seattle was eager to add Stevenson.

The 21-year-old left-handed hitter from the University of North Carolina was a standout for the Tar Heels. In his sophomore season in 2025, he slashed .251/.414/.552 with 19 homers, 58 RBIs, and a .965 OPS over 61 games, while drawing a team-high 59 walks, tied for fourth-most in program history.

His defense was just as impressive, throwing out 35 percent of attempted base stealers and leading all college catchers in defensive runs saved (14.65). He capped the year by earning Third-Team All-American honors and being named ACC Tournament MVP.

Mariners’ first-round pick Luke Stevenson wasting no time making minor league impact

Seattle’s scouting brass didn’t hesitate. With their Competitive Balance Round A selection, the Mariners secured Stevenson — citing his polished defensive skills, arm strength, and even maturity handling older pitching staffs from his freshman year as elements they deeply valued.

In his first taste of pro ball, Stevenson hasn’t just kept pace, he’s come out swinging. Two games in, and he’s already stacked multiple hits in each, wasting no time showing off the bat that made him a first-rounder. Then came the moment that should have Mariners fans buzzing: a laser from behind the plate that gunned down a would-be base stealer, the kind of throw that screams future plus-plus arm and reminds everyone why catchers like this don’t come around often.

His stock within the organization is already on the rise. In MLB Pipeline's latest prospect rankings for the Mariners, Stevenson debuted at No. 10. It’s an early vote of confidence and a sign that Seattle sees him as a key piece.

Let’s be frank, the Mariners’ catching depth chart has had its gaps in the past. But with Cal Raleigh locked into a long-term extension and Harry Ford knocking at the door, the organization clearly understands that you can never have too many long-term options behind the plate.

Stevenson brings power, plate discipline, and defensive instincts. Yes, his contact rate and strike zone control could use refinement, but if he can tap into his power more consistently, we could be watching a weapon develop behind the dish.

Moreover, his attitude and work ethic stand out. He talks about being a “servant to the staff,” and embraces doing the dirty work behind the scenes, never the flashy hero, but always the glue of a pitching staff. In fact, Mariners media has compared his quiet, professional mindset to Cal Raleigh, no small compliment.

The Mariners may have landed not just another solid catching prospect, but another cornerstone player capable of anchoring a lineup and defense for years to come.