Mariners sign 74th overall Draft pick Morgan

SEATTLE -- The Mariners announced the signing of outfielder Gareth Morgan, their second pick (74th overall) in the 2014 First-Year Player Draft, prior to Tuesday's series opener against the Yankees at Safeco Field.

The team's policy is to not discuss contract specifics, but a source close to the situation confirmed Morgan's signing bonus is $2 million, well above the $760,300 usually slotted for the 74th selection.

On Tuesday, Morgan (Blyth Academy, Toronto, Ontario) warmed up with the Mariners and took batting practice, hitting a pair of home runs -- one into the upper deck in left field. The 6-foot-4, 220-pound right-handed hitter will begin his pro career in the Arizona Rookie League, though he needs to secure a United States visa before playing.

Morgan said he'll fly home Wednesday, then to Arizona on Friday, where he'll wait for his paperwork to clear.

"It's been crazy. At the start of the Draft, I really didn't know what was going to happen, but I'm glad Seattle picked me," he said. "I toured the city Sunday and went on a couple [Ride the Ducks] tours. It's a great place to be and an exciting time."

Touted for his raw power, Morgan, 18, was the final pick of Competitive Balance Round B. He's currently a member of the Canadian Junior National Team and played for the Langley Blaze, a traveling club located near Vancouver, British Columbia.

In high school, Morgan played right field and center field, though the Mariners project him as a corner outfielder.