Mariners take prep star Simpson in sixth round

With the 177th pick in the Draft, Seattle made prep Corey Simpson of Sweeny HS (Texas) its sixth-round pick. While he played catcher in high school, the Mariners plan to use him as an outfielder.

"Sometimes, going into your senior year during your spring season, some people think their value is increased because they're a catcher," Mariners scouting director Tom McNamara said. "Well, he's played all over the place but we see him as an outfielder. Good sized kid, good looking hitter."

Simpson stands out for his raw power, which is rated among the best in this year's Draft class. He has a big swing and won't get cheated at the plate, but his approach can lead to strikeouts.

Simpson needs his power to carry him because he has a lot of work to do to stay behind the plate as a professional. He is a below-average receiver and, at 6-foot-3, 220 pounds, may simply be too big to catch. Simpson turned 19 in December and will be a draft-eligible sophomore in 2015 if he upholds his commitment to Houston.