MLB Pipeline's first 2025 mock drafts throw a new name into the mix for Mariners

In MLB Pipeline’s first two mock drafts of the year, the Seattle Mariners are projected to select LSU left-hander Kade Anderson — a name that has been flying up the ranks lately — with the No. 3 pick.

Anderson, now ranked third overall, is the highest rated college pitcher on MLB Pipeline’s draft board. He is a talented southpaw with high strikeout potential, but his name hadn’t been as prominently connected to Seattle as others like Florida State’s Jamie Arnold or even local standout Aiva Arquette.

Kade Anderson would bring further upside to the Mariners' loaded farm system

Anderson’s upside is undeniable. A lefty with a lively fastball and a developing breaking ball, he’s performed well in the SEC and fits the Mariners’ long-standing preference for college pitching.

The name Mariner fans commonly see is Jamie Arnold. He has been consistently atop draft boards thanks to a dominant 2024 season with FSU, and is following it up with another spectacular 2025. The left-hander has impressed scouts with improved command and a deep pitch mix, and he’s been widely mocked to Seattle in recent weeks.

Then there’s Aiva Arquette, a fast-rising college infielder out of Hawaii. With his athleticism, bat speed, and projection (a massive 6-foot-5 and 220 lbs), Arquette offers a different type of upside: a potential everyday shortstop who could anchor a future infield and lineup. His local ties — he played for Washington before transferring to Oregon State — and rising stock make him an intriguing option for a franchise that already has middle infield talent in the pipeline.

But, Anderson might have the highest upside of any college player.

At 6-foot-2 and 180 lbs, there is a lot of room for growth, with him potentially adding more velocity to a fastball plays much better than his velo (92-94 and can touch 97). A few pounds could add a few more ticks onto that. He improved his walk rate from 4.7 per nine to 2.4 per nine and maintained nearly 15 strikeouts per nine in 2025 over 89 innings. With a solid four-pitch mix, he has the makings of a solid No. 2 starter in the big leagues.

No matter your preference, it's hard to criticize Seattle’s track record with college arms. Logan Gilbert, George Kirby, Bryce Miller, and Bryan Woo were all selected with similar profiles: college pitchers that flew under the radar at draft time, while still possessing a lot of potential for more.

The Mariners’ player development system has consistently turned those picks into productive big leaguers. Now they will have another opportunity to select another college stud after surprisingly landing the No. 3 overall pick.