Seattle Mariners Top Five Impact Rookies to Watch in 2020
Kyle Lewis, Seattle Mariners. (Photo by Paul Hamaker CC, BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.orgwindex.phpcurid=82750176)
1. Kyle Lewis – Right Field
At 6-4, 205 pounds, Kyle Lewis cuts an imposing figure in a locker room full of professional athletes. Even though he is the seventh or eighth-ranked prospect in the organization (depending on who is doing the evaluations), Lewis is the real deal. The Seattle Mariners’ 2016 first-round round draft pick (11th overall) had to overcome a serious knee injury suffered during his first season in pro ball to get to where he is today. He worked hard to come back and has steadily improved each year.
Lewis played almost the entire 2019 season at Double-A Arkansas in 2019. He hit .260 with 11 home runs and 62 RBI in 457 at-bats. Unlike White, Lewis got a chance to show what he could do in the Majors last September. He put on a show during his 18 game call up.
When a team is as far out of the running as the Seattle Mariners were last September, it can be challenging to get fans excited about anything. Lewis had the M’s faithful out of their seats with six home runs in 71 at-bats, including some mammoth shots.
Like many power bats, Lewis tends to be a free swinger. Although he averaged one home run every 12 at-bats during his September recall, Lewis also struck out 29 times against only three walks. For him to be a successful Major League hitter, White must become more selective at the plate, especially since he won’t get as many fastballs to sit on this year.
Finally, Lewis can more than hold his own in the outfield. He covers his share of ground in right field, has a good glove, and an above-average arm.
Stay with PNWS, as we will have part three of our countdown to opening day series, tomorrow.
How do you feel about the Seattle Mariners 2020 rookie class? Let us know in the comments section below or on social media.