Tyler

Marlette

Marlette is moving up to Double-A after batting .274/.329/.470 with 20 home runs and 28 doubles in 120 games in the California League over parts of the last two seasons. The 22-year-old catcher has struggled to stay healthy since the Mariners selected him in the fifth round of the 2011 draft out of high school, as he’s played in only 204 games—highlighted by a career-high 90 games played last season—since the start of the 2013 season. Marlette, who’s ranked by MLB.com as the Mariners’ No. 8 prospect, stands out more for his bat than his defense, though he does own a respectable 37% caught-stealing rate during his five-year career.

Marlette’s power is real. He blasted 17 home runs in 90 games last season and returns as one of the better offensive catchers in Class-A. Of course, his play on defense leaves a lot to be desired. If Marlette can become at least competent behind the plate, he’ll have a real chance to play at the next level.