The Mariners Monday signed signed Alex Jackson, a catcher/outfielder from Rancho Bernardo (CA) High School, the club’s first selection (sixth overall) in the first-year player draft. MLB Daily Dish reported that he received a $4.2 million deal. That’s about $600,000 more than the slot-recommended signing bonus for the No. 6 overall pick, which will cost them a luxury tax penalty.
Jackson will begin his pro career with the rookie-level Arizona Mariners (Peoria, AZ.). He took batting practice at Safeco Field Monday afternoon prior to Seattle’s series opener against the Boston Red Sox.
The 18-year-old Jackson, who will report to Peoria Tuesday, hit .400 (40×100) with a 1.459 OPS and 45 runs scored, seven doubles, four triples, 11 home runs, 31 RBIs in 35 games during his senior season at Rancho Bernardo. Jackson helped lead Broncos to a 30-4 record and a No. 1 ranking heading in the playoffs.
The Broncos were rated as the sixth-best team in the nation by Baseball America in 2014. Other notable high draft picks out of Rancho Bernardo include Cole Hammels (17th overall in 2002) and Hank Blalock (3rd round in 1999).
The 6-foot-2, 215-pounder was primarily a catcher in high school and was rated by Baseball America as the top position player in the draft (fourth overall prospect). Jackson was also named to the 2014 Perfect Game All-America and California All-Region first team after his senior season.
In four seasons, Jackson batted .375 (150×400) with 156 runs scored, 35 doubles, six triples, 47 home runs and 127 RBIs in 135 games. His 47 prep career home runs tied him with former Indians prospect Johnny Drennen (2002-05) for the San Diego section record.
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Right out of high school and gets $4 million dollars. Pretty good for his first job I suppose. I worked in fast food for minimum wage for my first job.