The Seattle Mariners' future is looking bright, with a promising crop of young talent set to take the field in 2028. But who will be the top prospect in the organization that year? Experts are pointing to right-handed starter Ryan Sloan, a 20-year-old who has already made a big impression in the MLB draft and the Minor League Baseball scene.
Sloan's journey began in 2024 when the Mariners drafted him 55th overall, signing him for a hefty $3 million. His talent was evident from the start, with a combination of a feel for pitching and a high ceiling that caught the eye of MLB.com. Despite a closely monitored workload, Sloan earned his way to High-A in his first full year of pro ball, showcasing his potential as a three-plus pitch pitcher with above-average control.
The future is indeed bright for Sloan, who dominated during his senior season as a prep player, going 2-3 with a 0.30 ERA and 90 strikeouts over 46 innings. This performance earned him the Illinois Gatorade Baseball Player of the Year title. Even in 2025, as a teenager, Sloan continued to impress in the Minor Leagues, posting a 3.73 ERA and 90 strikeouts in 82 innings pitched. The Mariners are taking a patient approach, recognizing that Sloan has the time to mature and develop, especially with their young, solid rotation.
As Sloan continues to refine his skills, the Mariners are poised to benefit from his talent in the years to come. With a combination of feel, control, and a high ceiling, Sloan is on track to become one of the best right-handed pitching prospects in the game. The question remains: will he be the top prospect in 2028? Only time will tell, but Sloan is certainly on the fast track to becoming a star in the making.
