Mariners Lock Up Top Prospect Colt Emerson

0:00It's April 1st. Welcome in. This is Seattle Mariners News Today, where your team meets AI. I'm Cory with the story. The Seattle Mariners just locked up their top prospect, Colt Emerson, with an 8-year extension worth $95 million. This deal runs through at least the 2033 season and includes a club option for a 9-year. It's the biggest contract ever for a player with zero major league service time. That tops Jackson Shureo's $8-year $83 million packed with the Milwaukee Brewers from 2023. Mariners president Jerry DePoto called it a priority move to keep their homegrown talent through his prime years. Emerson ranks as the number one guy in Seattle system and number seven overall in baseball. Last year, he hit 285 with 16 homers and 78 RBI's across three minor league levels, crushing it in AAA too. DePoto raves about his baseball smarts, defense at shortstop or third base and perfect clubhouse fit.

1:00He just needs more reps against top pitching and he could debut right away, likely at the hot corner while JP Crawford rehabs at short. This sets up the Mariners for a versatile lineup with Emerson locked in long-term, benefiting the whole squad as they build for contention.