Prospect Countdown: #23 Michael Mariot

23. Michael Mariot Right Handed Pitcher

Jake Rose Photography

Age: 24
Position: RHP
Height: 6-0
Weight: 190
B/T: R/R
Acquired: Drafted 8th Round of 2010 Amateur Draft
From: Southlake, Texas

Paden Bennett (23):  I put Michael Mariot at 23 on my rankings because he does what you want every pitcher in a rotation or bullpen to do, throw strikes.  Mariot isn't going to blow you away with his stuff, but hes got good enough stuff that when he's in the strike zone (often he is) he can be very effective.  I look for Mariot to start in Omaha (hopefully in rotation) and continue to build on his solid 2012 season.  If he can continue to locate his pitches I could see him as a 4 or 5 starter or a swing man.

Joe Cox (24): Michael Mariot pitched predominately with AA Northwest Arkansas last year, and the 24 year old righty proved to have a solid season.  Mariot did not dominate, but continued to show that he has the ability to limit walks by commanding the strike zone.  Mariot showcases an above average fastball in the low to mid 90’s, and has a four pitch arsenal. 

The Royals look to be working Mariot to be a swing pitcher that can either start or relief, but it appears the righty will more likely be a potential middle reliever at the major league level.  It is nice to see young pitchers that limit walks at every level like Mariot has done, and as long as he can continue to strike enough batters out and limit his home runs he could be a valuable pitching piece for the Royals in the near future.

Damion Mandalas (NR):  Mariot's success continues to be a result of strong command of his average stuff. Mariot has been a staple of consistency throughout his time in Kansas City's system, posting ERAs of 3.54, 3.41, and 3.33 in each of his three professional seasons. Mariot has the upside of a back of the rotation starter, but more than likely he will serve a few seasons as a Nate Adcock, Everett Teaford type shuffling between AAA and the Majors as a spot starter long reliever.

Dan Ware (NR): Mariot has fared well with platooning from starting and relief work in his short minor league career.  In just 2 short years, he's already thrown in the Rookie League up to AAA in Omaha and for the most part, has been very consistent on the mound, especially with his good command.  It seems to be that Mariot is the future Everett Teaford, where he can start if the rotation is in a bind, or come in from the 'pen.  Either way, I don't think Mariot will mind as long as he gets to pitch.  I could see him starting off in Omaha for the start of the '13 season.  If he keeps the momentum going from 2012, he'll be in Kansas City in no time.

Total Points: 15