Prospects Spotlight: American League West

Feb 26, 2015; Peoria, AZ, USA; Seattle Mariners infielder D.J. Peterson poses for a portrait during photo day at Peoria Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Seattle Mariners

D.J. Peterson, Third Baseman/First Baseman

The Mariners have done a fine job of rebuilding their Minor League system the past few seasons after striking out on trades for guys like Justin Smoak and Jesus Montero.

The past two drafts have produced Alex Jackson, Gareth Morgan and Peterson among others.

Playing first in the Futures Game.

Photo Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

Jackson, an outfielder, could be the best of this bunch, but Peterson is a likely 2015 call-up whereas Jackson is not, so I chose to spotlight Peterson in a combo you can’t really go wrong.

The 12th overall pick out of the University of New Mexico, D.J. Peterson is going to be someone the Mariners don’t swing and miss on.

With Kyle Seager‘s emergence as a bonafide third baseman, Peterson’s future likely resides across the diamond at first. Peterson has played 135 of his minors games at third, 20 at first.

Presently at first base for Seattle is a combination of Logan Morrison and newcomer Richie Weeks is listed behind him on the team website’s depth chart. Nelson Cruz and Seth Smith can rotate at DH and right field, opening up at bats there for the young power hitter. Former Texas Rangers top prospect and the prize of the 2010 Cliff Lee trade, Justin Smoak, was waived (and claimed by Toronto who is all over this A.L. West article).

D.J.’s power came onto the scene last year, hitting 18 in high A and then 13 more in AA. He had 111 RBI for the season and undoubtedly will appear sometime this season in Seattle.

Next: Houston Astros