Two Mariners pitchers cited among top prospects in rookie ball

Here’s some hope on the horizon. Two Mariners pitchers selected in the June draft were cited by Baseball America in its list of the 20 top prospects in the Arizona Rookie League.

Right-hander Nick Neidert, a second-round pick, ranked as the No. 6 prospect, and right-hander Dylan Thompson, a fourth-round pick, ranked No. 20. Both were selected after their senior year in high school.

"Neidert is an ultra-competitive strike-thrower," according to Baseball America, "with excellent command of three pitches and impressive mound presence.

"His 90-92 mph fastball could be a plus pitch in time, and his changeup and curveball should be average offerings."

Baseball America reported Thompson "has a better chance to stay in the rotation than other high school pitchers debuting in the (Arizona Rookie League) this year.

"Thompson throws his fastball at 91-92 mph, and his high-70s slider, which has some bite and sweepy shape, projects as an average offering. He also throws a changeup in the low 80s."

This story was originally published September 22, 2015 at 10:23 AM with the headline "Two Mariners pitchers cited among top prospects in rookie ball."