The Mariners have been missing a prospect third baseman since the days that Kyle Seager came up through the ranks. That all changed in 2022 when the Seattle Mariners drafted Tyler Locklear with their second-round pick.
At the time, Locklear’s comp was Pete Alonso, and he very well could get there. He has untapped raw power that organizations love in prospects. In the two years he’s been in the Seattle Mariners organization, Locklear has burst through the ranks. He’s currently on track for a late 2024 debut. Between three teams this last season, Locklear slashed .288/.454/.504 with 25 doubles, one triple, and 13 home runs.
Now the question: Where would he play on the Big League roster?
In College, he showed an above-average arm while handling the hot corner, but scouts have suggested he must move across the infield at the next levels. As it appears, the Mariners have already had the 23-year-old make the switch to first base. So, rather than being the Mariners third baseman of the future. He could be that at first. Evan White, unfortunately, can’t stay healthy, and Ty France, while he has shown improvement defensively, either had a down year or didn’t yield that power that a first baseman is known for.
When it comes to third base, the Mariners may have to wait for Michael Arroyo, Tai Peete, or Ben Williamson. Though, with Eugenio Suarez manning third currently, the Mariners have no rush for a prospect to take over.
Locklear, who had a solid year at A+ and AA, also plays in the Arizona Fall League to gain more at-bats. After going 0-for-9 in his first three starts, the Mariners’ No. 11 prospect broke out on Saturday, 10/7, going 3-for-6 with a homer and four RBIs.
