The Mariners' master plan to forge their next ace is already in motion

Heading into the 2025 MLB Draft, there was almost a sense of regret and frustration about the Seattle Mariners holding the third overall pick. While it was an unexpected bonus to move up to third position via the draft lottery, the feeling was they had received this high pick in a year where the top of the draft class wasn't particularly strong.

Well, any misgivings were soon replaced by feelings of euphoria, as the Mariners were subsequently gifted the best pitcher and arguably the No. 1 talent in this year's draft class. With the addition of Kade Anderson, the rest of the league now has even more reason to continue fearing one of the best rotations in baseball.

Not that Mariners fans will get to see Anderson perform anytime soon, with the organization making the disappointing (but absolutely correct) decision that he will not make his professional debut until next year due to a heavy workload during 2025. However, this doesn't mean there isn't a plan in place for his development in the meantime.

Mariners focused on making Kade Anderson stronger

With Anderson done pitching for the year, Mariners' director of amateur scouting Scott Hunter confirmed that he's headed to the team's complex in Peoria, Arizona. As per Tim Booth of The Seattle Times, the lefty is working alongside the performance staff with the goal of adding weight and putting on strength.

The rationale behind this is so that when Anderson begins throwing again to prepare for spring training next year, he’ll be stronger and have better endurance for his first season of pro ball. This brings to mind part of his SIS scouting report ahead of the draft, as written by Brandon Tew:

"He throws with a slightly slower, more controlled tempo, but blocks out his lead leg to transfer energy well. While there is no significant uncoiling or unwinding of energy, his delivery is repeatable. With either added mass or even more powerful moves, Anderson could tap into even more velocity."

Brandon Tew for Sports Info Solutions

Hunter provided some more insight into the Mariners' approach regarding Anderson. He said: "Getting him some rest to rebuild and be prepared for his first spring training will be the biggest thing for him. Probably going to be the hardest thing for him as well, because it’s his first time without baseball and throwing the ball around. But at some point this, probably, fall or late winter, early spring, he’ll get back on the mound. But for the most part just get himself ready for that first spring."

The high ceiling of Kade Anderson can benefit the Mariners

It's scary to think just how much more Anderson can still improve, after helping lead the LSU Tigers to the College World Series. He was stellar all season in going 12-1, leading the NCAA in strikeouts and topping it all off by being named the College World Series Most Outstanding Player.

It would be entirely understandable if the 21-year-old felt any sense of frustration in being shut down until next year. Not that he doesn't have faith in the Mariners' approach, as he said: "I’m dedicated to the plan the Mariners have for me. I think if you take it day-by-day it kind of makes it easier and you never get too far ahead of yourself. … There’s always room for improvement in every area."

In reality, it would seem foolhardy for anyone to criticize the Mariners' plans with Anderson. When you consider the development and success of the likes of Logan Gilbert, George Kirby Bryce Miller and Bryan Woo, it's clear this is an organization that knows what it's doing when it comes to pitching prospects.

Besides, using Pittsburgh Pirates ace Paul Skenes as the poster child, it isn't outside the realms of possibility that Anderson could even make his Major League debut at some point during 2026. In any event, the Mariners have a master plan in motion for their next potential ace and fans should be appropriately intrigued and excited about what's to come.