URGENT UPDATE: The Seattle Mariners have just promoted top catching prospect Harry Ford to their major league roster as of Monday, September 4, 2023, coinciding with the expansion of active rosters to 28 players. This pivotal move marks a significant step for the 22-year-old star, who showcased impressive numbers with a .283 batting average, 16 home runs, and 74 RBIs during his time with Triple-A Tacoma.
Ford, ranked as the No. 40 prospect overall by MLB Pipeline and No. 4 within the Mariners organization, is making waves after being selected as the No. 12 overall pick in the 2021 amateur draft straight out of North Cobb High School in Kennesaw, Georgia. His signing bonus of $4,366,400 was equal to the slot value, reflecting the high expectations placed on him.
Over five minor league seasons, Ford has maintained a solid overall performance with a .266 batting average, 52 home runs, 261 RBIs, and 92 steals, demonstrating his potential as a versatile player. In a remarkable showing on the international stage, he also contributed to Great Britain’s qualification for the 2023 World Baseball Classic, hitting two home runs during the group stage.
With Ford’s ascent, he becomes the fifth first-round pick from consecutive drafts now featured on the Mariners’ active roster, joining notable talents such as right-handers Logan Gilbert (2018), George Kirby (2019), Emerson Hancock (2020), and infielder Cole Young (2022).
In addition to Ford’s promotion, the Mariners have also selected the contracts of right-hander Luke Jackson from Tacoma and recalled infielder Leo Rivas from the Rainiers. To make room, right-hander Sauryn Lao has been designated for assignment, and infielder Donovan Solano has been released.
As the Mariners gear up for the remainder of the season, all eyes will be on Ford as he steps into the big leagues, potentially altering the dynamics of the team. Fans are eager to see how this young talent will perform at the highest level, marking a new chapter in his burgeoning career.
Stay tuned for further updates on Ford’s debut and the impact of these roster changes on the Mariners’ playoff aspirations.
