Down on the Farm: Mariners Minor League Check-in

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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. 

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.

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.