SEATTLE — In their upcoming off-season search for a right-handed power bat, the Seattle Mariners recognize they might already have exactly what they need within their organization.
They just believe third baseman D.J. Peterson, 22, might still need a little more seasoning in the minors.
The operative word is “might.”
Club officials will monitor Peterson closely in the Arizona Fall League, which begins next week, and are already planning to give him a long look in spring training.
“His age and experience might be working against him,” general manager Jack Zduriencik said, “but this is also a pretty good hitter. You don’t shut the door on it. You leave it open and see what he does.”
Peterson was the club’s first-round pick in the 2013 draft and bolstered his status as the organization’s top non-pitching prospect by batting .297 this season with 31 homers and 111 RBI in 123 games at Double-A and Hi-A.
He also quickly allayed any fears that he might struggle to recover after suffering a season-ending injury in 2013 when hit in the jaw by a pitch.
“It took a little bit (of time), honestly,” Peterson admitted. “I think now, I’m completely over it. I’m good to go. I’m going to keep the flap on the helmet. But, mentally, I feel like I’m completely over it.”
Plans call for Peterson to split time at third base and first base while playing for the Surprise Saguaros in the Fall League. But he is likely to switch at some point to full-time duty at first.
The Mariners already have All-Star Kyle Seager at third base.
“I played a lot of first base in college,” Peterson said. “It’s a position that I’m acquainted with. I’m very used to it. It wouldn’t be too much of an adjustment.”
It still seems likely that Peterson will open next season in the minors, perhaps at Triple-A Tacoma, but club officials acknowledge he could force his way onto the big-league roster at some point.
Maybe for the April 6 opener against the Angels at Safeco Field.
“I wouldn’t say no,” Zduriencik said. “Coming out of Double-A to the big leagues is challenging, but he’s going to be in the Fall League. There are a lot of people who’ve been around him who think this guy is the real deal.
“We’ll bring him into spring training. He’ll get a fair shot. What happens, happens.”
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