Seattle Mariners: Danny Hultzen (LHP, University of Virginia)
Considered the top left-hander in the 2011 draft by most experts, Hultzen went 11-3 with a 1.57 ERA and a 148/17 K/BB ratio in 103 innings this year for the Cavaliers. He features a 92-96 MPH fastball, a strong changeup, an improving slider, and very sharp control. He is expected to move through the farm system quickly and could be ready for the majors within two years. He projects as a number-two starter in the majors, and his game would play well in the pitcher-friendly confines of Seattle.
This was not the expected selection; most experts felt the Mariners would go with Rice third baseman Anthony Rendon. Pre-draft rumors indicated that Hultzen wanted up to $13 million to sign, but the Mariners are apparently not afraid of the monetary concerns. Other rumors indicated they were focused on offense even if they passed on Rendon, but those rumors proved false as well.