Ryan Bliss, Seattle Mariners number 11 prospect, was called up today. The Mariners needed to make some moves, with Jorge Polanco moving to the 10-day injured list. This is the first opportunity for the 5’7 middle infielder to prove himself as a big-league talent.
Mariners Top 15 Prospect Gets Called Up
Ryan Bliss Bio
Bliss was drafted in the second round by the Arizona Diamondback out of Auburn. The Burbank, California native was part of the trade that sent Paul Sewald from Seattle to Arizona in 2023. Bliss was assigned to Triple-A Tacoma once he joined the Seattle organization. Over 47 games, to finish up the 2023 season, Bliss slashed .251/.356/.466.
Bliss has done much of the same during his 2024 campaign, slashing .247/.382/.445. The 24-year-old has struck out 50 times this season to his 39 walks. That solid on-base percentage allows Bliss to do what he does best: steal bases. In 327 minor league games, Bliss stole 127 bases, only being caught 37 times. 51 of those stolen bases have come at the Triple-A level.
Ryan Bliss goes oppo for a 2-run HR! pic.twitter.com/wBFSUoOKMr
— Mariners Minors (@MiLBMariners) May 26, 2024
Power Surge
Not necessarily known for his power when he was drafted, Bliss has made adjustments over the last two years. 30 of the middle infielders, 46 minor league home runs, have come over the previous year and a half. Bliss added 11 triples and 43 doubles to his power numbers as well. The combination of speed and power are expected to complement the struggling Seattle lineup.
Back at home with a four-game set on deck. #TridentsUp pic.twitter.com/wzPL4h1vi3
— Seattle Mariners (@Mariners) May 27, 2024
Despite being called up today, Bliss will be batting eighth in the Seattle lineup versus the Houston Astros. With fellow prospect Jonatan Clase batting ninth, there is a lot of speed at the bottom of the order. With these two getting hot, it will give J.P. Crawford, Dylan Moore, Julio Rodriguez, and the rest of the top of the order a chance to drive in some runs.
Main Photo Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
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