The Seattle Mariners will have a ton of options this week at the 2012 MLB Draft. Armed with the No. 3 overall pick in the first round the team is expected to go with a hitter, although a pitcher could also be in the picture should Stanford ace Mark Appel somehow slip to their spot. That is unexpected though, and Keith Law has the M's going with a stud catcher with their pick.
According to Law's latest mock draft ($), Mike Zunino, the catcher for the Florida Gators, will be headed to Seattle.
Mike Zunino, C, Florida
There is a rumor that has picked up some steam in the past 48 hours that has the Mariners taking Correa. If they don't take Zunino, he's a possibility to the Royals at No. 5, but he could slide as far as 8 with 12 as a floor. Seattle would take Buxton if he's here.
The Correa mentioned in the blurb above is shortstop Carlos Correa, who has been receiving a ton of attention lately. Just 17 years old and out of the Puerto Rico Baseball Acadamy he is undoubtably a big project who will need years to develop, but he probably has the highest ceiling of any prospect available in 2012.
The Mariners may be looking for a guy who will arrive sooner than that, which makes Zunino very appealing.
The MLB Draft is scheduled to begin on Monday, June 4.
For more on the draft be sure to check out Minor League Ball. Mariners fans should visit Lookout Landing for their continued coverage.