Mariners start 2026 MLB Draft by prioritizing college depth

The Mariners opened Day 1 of the 2026 MLB Draft by returning to a college-heavy approach, selecting Ace Reese (3B, Mississippi State) in Round 1, LSU outfielder Jake Brown in Round 2, Cincinnati RHP Nathan Taylor in Round 3, and UNC Wilmington 3B Trevor Lucas in Round 4, aiming to bolster up-the-middle depth and immediate‑impact potential. Reese’s stock drop was tied to lower contact rates amid an injury and coaching change; Brown impressed with speed and power potential; Taylor is a slider‑heavy pitcher the club believes it can develop; Lucas provides versatile infield power potential. They also collected roughly $450K extra bonus pool for Day 2 by signing some picks under slot and plan to re-rack and be creative as they pursue value later in the draft.