The Seattle Mariners are gearing up for one of the most exciting moments of the offseason—the 2023 MLB Draft. Thanks to December’s draft lottery, they’ll hold the No. 3 overall selection.
With this rare shot, the Mariners could grab an immediate-impact player who might just rocket up to the majors. MLB.com prospect analyst Jonathan Mayo has pointed out several top candidates for Seattle, highlighting LSU pitcher Kade Anderson and Oregon State shortstop Aiva Arquette. He also mentions some broader draft class implications, but let’s be honest, the focus is on who the Mariners should snag.
The Mariners’ Strategy at No. 3: Anderson vs. Arquette
At No. 3, Seattle will probably lean toward one of two standout college prospects: LSU lefty Kade Anderson or Oregon State’s versatile infielder Aiva Arquette. Each guy brings something different to the table, and picking between a dominant arm and an explosive bat feels like a franchise-defining call.
Kade Anderson’s Elite Arsenal
Anderson, ranked No. 3 by MLB Pipeline, is looking like one of the safest bets among college pitchers. His season numbers jump off the page: a 10-1 win-loss record, a 3.76 ERA, and a wild 163 strikeouts.
He throws a polished fastball that can hit 97 mph and pairs it with a nasty changeup. Anderson’s shown he can overpower hitters and keep them off balance. Mayo says Anderson’s command and overall stuff make him the top college arm in this draft.
Notable strengths:
- High-velocity fastball paired with a devastating changeup
- Command and consistency that should work at the pro level
- Proven track record as a high-performing ace
Aiva Arquette’s Power Bat and Positional Versatility
On the flip side, there’s Arquette, ranked No. 6 by MLB Pipeline. He’s flashed serious skills at the plate, slashing .354 with 18 home runs and 65 RBIs this season.
The Oregon State shortstop shows off raw power and a knack for driving in runs. Scouts love his rocket arm and aggressive approach, but there’s some doubt about his long-term fit at shortstop because he’s a big dude—6-foot-5. Mayo thinks he’ll probably start his pro career at short, but a move to third base could be in the cards.
Notable strengths:
- Power profile with steady offensive production
- Strong throwing arm, offering defensive options
- Potential to grow into a cornerstone infielder
The Bigger Picture: A No. 1 Prospect Without a Consensus
High school phenom Ethan Holliday is getting some No. 1 pick buzz, but most experts don’t see him as a Mariners target at No. 3. Holliday, who’s the son of former MLB star Matt Holliday, brings athleticism and plenty of raw power.
Seattle seems focused on players who can help sooner, so Holliday just isn’t a likely fit. In the past, the Mariners have gone for high school hitters early, but this year’s draft class doesn’t have that clear-cut top option.
Embracing the Draft Lottery Opportunity
The Mariners’ high pick puts them in a rare spot to grab an elite prospect—someone who might help out faster than usual. Seattle’s front office has a real chance to make the most of their unusual draft lottery luck.
What makes this draft exciting for Seattle:
- The chance to dip into an unusually deep college class
- Landing a high pick thanks to rare lottery positioning
- Potential to speed up player development and see real impact at the big-league level
Final Takeaways: Mariners Poised for a Big Win
The Seattle Mariners are at a crossroads, but honestly, it’s a good spot to be in. They can go with Anderson’s elite arm or chase Arquette’s power-packed bat at No. 3.
This pick could reshape their farm system and, who knows, maybe even their major league roster. Jonathan Mayo outlined several intriguing options, so Mariners fans can feel pretty confident that the team’s set up to land an impact player.
In a draft class without a clear generational talent at the top, Seattle has some real choices to make. Will Anderson step up as the future ace they’ve pictured, or could Arquette’s bat and arm define the next chapter?
The clock’s ticking, and you can feel the anticipation. Honestly, the Mariners are absolutely a team to keep an eye on in this year’s MLB Draft.
Here is the source article for this story: Draft insider Mayo details Seattle Mariners options at No. 3
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