Down on the Farm: Mariners Minor League Check-in
By Trevor Pedro

Everett Aquasox
16-16 (4th in Northwest League)
Led by a dynamic one-two punch of Harry Ford and Tyler Locklear, the Aquasox are staying afloat in a competitive Northwest League. Ford, the organization's top prospect, continues to show a keen eye (30 BB/27 K) at the plate and a strong arm behind it. However, the big headline for Ford is cracking his first High-A dinger.
The April Plumb Fit Crack of the Month is @harry_ford first NWL home run. #HowBoutThemFrogs pic.twitter.com/xsBzr2vbsj
— Everett AquaSox (@EverettAquaSox) May 11, 2023
Meanwhile, Locklear exceeds his prospect status by filling a run-producing role in the Frogs' lineup. He has made massive strides in the box, almost doubling his walk rate between Modesto (5.3%) and Everett (10.4%). In addition, the slugging first baseman is delivering in big run-producing spots thanks to the dynamic Aquasox top of the order (Harry Ford, Ben Ramirez, Hogan Windish). Peek at the Northwest League Leader Board, and you'll see an exciting trend. Six weeks and 125 at-bats into the season, Locklear is in the Top 10 in nearly every major category.
Crushed. Tyler Locklear solo HR! pic.twitter.com/OPzv7EvTAT
— Mariners Minors (@MiLBMariners) May 10, 2023
The pitching has been solid in some cases and spectacular with newfound ace Reid VanScooter. The former North Carolina Tarheel is showcasing a four-pitch arsenal with his late-life fastball leading the charge. VanScooter's last start (6 IP, one run, 6 K) was a right-the-ship performance and something he can build upon as he moves up the ladder soon.