Mariners #22 Prospect - Luis Suisbel

The Mariners have tapped in the Caribbean and South America in recent years to unearth some of their top prospects. That list includes Noelvi Marte, Edwin Arroyo, Julio Rodriguez, Lazaro Montes, and this year's top signee, Felnin Celestin. The next prospect on that list could be Luis Suisbel.

Suisbel started his professional career in the Dominican Summer League struggling across two uneven seasons (.202/.346/.327), which amounted to 98 wRC+. Like most youngsters in the DSL, Suisbel struggled with strikeouts, but he also demonstrated solid plate discipline, walking at a 10.2% clip. That walk rate and a solid defensive profile were probably his saving grace, buying him a longer leash and another shot in the Arizona Complex League in 2023.

The 20-year-old corner infielder flipped a switch this past season, absolutely raking across two levels and finishing the year with the California League champs, Modesto Nuts. The slash line was spectacular (.291/.423/.952), but the swing-and-miss was still there (37 BB/82 SO). Despite the strikeouts, Suisbel would team with fellow prospect Lazaro Montes to anchor a dynamic Modesto lineup.

Right now, Suisbel is a switch-hitter who provides power from the left side and more contact from the right side. There is a off-chance he might forgo the power and tap into his hit tool more as he faces higher velocity and spin in the upper levels of the minors.

Defensively, Suisbel bounced between third base and first base this season, showing solid chops and leaning into his 55-grade arm. That versatility should serve him well as he makes his way through the Mariners farm system. Look for the Mariners to start Suisbel in Everett in 2024, with a slight chance of him finishing the season in Arkansas.