The Seattle Mariners have made a blockbuster trade with the Atlanta Braves, sending three of their top prospects to the Braves in exchange for a package of four players. Outfielder Jarred Kelenic, left-hander Marco Gonzales, and first baseman Evan White are all headed to the Braves in the deal.
Kelenic, the Mariners’ top prospect, was the sixth overall pick in the 2018 MLB Draft. He is considered one of the top outfield prospects in baseball and is expected to make an immediate impact for the Braves. He is a five-tool player who can hit for average and power, run the bases well, and play excellent defense in center field.
Gonzales, a former first-round pick of the Mariners in 2013, has been a reliable starter for the team over the past few seasons. He has a career 3.81 ERA and 1.27 WHIP in six major league seasons. He will provide the Braves with a reliable arm in their rotation.
White, the Mariners’ first-round pick in 2019, is considered one of the top first base prospects in baseball. He is a solid hitter with good power and a strong arm. He is expected to be an everyday player for the Braves in 2021.
In return, the Mariners received four players from the Braves: outfielder Guillermo Heredia, right-handers Arodys Vizcaino and Kyle Wright, and left-hander Bryse Wilson. Heredia is a veteran outfielder who will provide depth for the Mariners, while Vizcaino and Wright are both hard-throwing relievers who should help bolster the Mariners’ bullpen. Wilson is a young lefty who could develop into a starter down the line.
The Mariners have made a bold move by trading away three of their top prospects for four major league-ready players. It remains to be seen how this trade will pan out for both teams, but it’s clear that the Mariners are looking to win now while the Braves are looking to build for the future.
