Ranking Mariners' Top 100 prospects by potential 2025 impact

Following the release of MLB Pipeline's rankings for the top prospects of 2025, one thing is clear: the Seattle Mariners are loaded with young talent. As one of only two teams with seven players in the top 100, the Mariners' farm system continues to stand among the strongest in baseball.

While the organization has long been known for churning out elite pitching talent, the glaring lack of high-impact bats has been a persistent issue. That narrative is starting to change. While an immediate splash isn't expected in 2025, some are closer than others. Let's break down which of these rising stars has the best shot at contributing to the Mariners this season.

1. Cole Young (2B/SS) - No. 49 in MLB, No. 3 in Mariners Organization

Among the Mariners' top-ranked prospects, Cole Young is the most MLB-ready and closest to making an impact. The left-handed-hitter is known for his high-contact approach, above-average speed, reliable glove, and solid plate discipline. While he won’t be a 20-homer threat, his ability to spray the ball around the field fits seamlessly into Seattle’s offensive philosophy.

More importantly, Young’s path to the majors is wide open. The Mariners have yet to find a stable answer at second base, with Dylan Moore currently penciled in as the starter. However, Moore doesn’t have a long leash, especially with Ryan Bliss right behind him.

If Moore or Bliss struggles at the plate, Young could be in Seattle sooner rather than later. Expect him to at least be a post-All-Star break call-up if he continues to perform in Triple-A.

2. Harry Ford (C/OF) - No. 65 in MLB, No. 4 in Mariners Organization

At 22 years old, Harry Ford is the oldest of the Mariners' top prospects and one of the most intriguing. A catcher by trade, Ford has been getting reps in the outfield due to the presence of Cal Raleigh. Ford’s athleticism, strong base-stealing ability, and excellent bat-to-ball skills make him an exciting player to watch.

Ford is off to a scorching start in spring training, going 6-for-11 with three RBIs, three stolen bases, and zero strikeouts in 14 plate appearances. However, his power still hasn’t fully developed, and his high strikeout rate in the minors remains a concern.

The biggest roadblock to Ford’s MLB arrival is playing time. Unless the Mariners move him to a more permanent outfield role or make a significant roster move, such as parting ways with Mitch Garver, his debut in 2025 remains unlikely. Still, if injuries pile up or Seattle needs a late-season spark, Ford could get the call in the second half.

3. Lazaro Montes (OF) - No. 42 in MLB, No. 2 in Mariners Organization

Montes has surged up the prospect rankings thanks to his elite power and rapid development at the plate. The 20-year-old Cuban slugger, who models his game after Yordan Alvarez, has conquered every minor league level he’s seen since signing with the Mariners in 2022. He mashed over 20 home runs in both 2023 and 2024 and has already launched two homers in his first 13 spring training plate appearances.

Despite his offensive firepower, Montes remains a long shot for 2025 due to two key factors: his defense and the Mariners' crowded outfield. He’s still refining his fielding, and with Julio Rodríguez, Randy Arozarena, Victor Robles and others ahead of him, there’s no immediate spot available. Unless an injury crisis hits Seattle’s outfield, Montes is likely a 2026 arrival.

The Rest of the Pack: 2026 and Beyond

While the Mariners have three prospects who could push for a 2025 debut, the other four in the Top 100 — infielders Colt Emerson, Felnin Celestin, and Michael Arroyo and outfielder Jonny Farmelo — are all further away from the big leagues.

Emerson, in particular, is one to watch. The 19-year-old infielder has an elite hit tool and could be a good fit at third base, giving Seattle a long-term solution at the hot corner. If his development stays on track, he could be a factor as early as 2026.

With seven Top 100 prospects in their pipeline, the Mariners are stacking up for a promising future. Even if 2025 does not see a major influx of young talent, the next wave is coming. If this group delivers the offensive firepower they’re expected to, Seattle’s decision to hold onto its farm system instead of trading for immediate upgrades could pay off in a big way.