Mega-agent Scott Boras said the Seattle Mariners’ young core could “redefine the AL West.” Top prospect Ace Reese just broke his silence.
In an exclusive interview with Reuters, Reese addressed Boras’ prediction head-on. “I’m not trying to prove him wrong,” Reese said. “I’m trying to prove him right.”
The Mariners signed Reese, their first-round draft pick, on July 15. The contract, negotiated by Boras, included a $5.2 million signing bonus – 10% above slot value, per MLB.com.
Reese arrived in Seattle last Tuesday. His itinerary packed a full day: coffee at Pike Place Market, a visit to the Space Needle, and batting practice at T-Mobile Park.
“The fans here are different,” Reese said. “You feel it the second you step in the stadium.”
Photos of Reese at T-Mobile Park circulated widely on social media. Yahoo Sports coverage highlighted the moment, calling him “the future face of the franchise.”
Boras’ Prediction: What the Agent Said
In a July 16 interview with the Seattle Times, Boras singled out Reese and fellow prospect Kade Anderson.
“Ace Reese and Kade Anderson represent a generational shift in Seattle’s pipeline,” Boras said. “This core can redefine the AL West.”
Boras rarely singles out prospects. His endorsement signals a high ceiling for Reese. The agent has a history with Mariners’ top picks: he represented former first-rounder Harry Ford, traded to Atlanta in 2023.
First Trip to Seattle: From Pike Place to the Batter’s Box
Reese’s day started at Pike Place Market. He ordered a latte from the original Starbucks. Then he took a 30-minute Uber to the Space Needle.
“I took a selfie at the top,” Reese said. “The view is insane.”
By 2:00 PM, he was at T-Mobile Park for batting practice. He hit 15 balls over the fence – exit velocity averaged 107 mph, per team data.
On the Field: What Reese Brings
Scouting reports from MLB.com highlight Reese’s exit velocity (110 mph max), defensive range (30-foot radius), and plate discipline (12% strikeout rate in college).
His skill set complements star center fielder Julio Rodríguez. Reese projects as a corner outfielder with power and speed – a 20/20 potential, according to scouts.
Timeline to the majors? “I want to be ready by 2027,” Reese said. “Boras helped structure the contract so I can focus on development, not money.”
The Bigger Picture: Seattle’s Long-Term Plans
General Manager Jerry Dipoto’s philosophy centers on building through the draft. Reese was the priority first-round pick – the Mariners passed on a college pitcher to select him.
Boras’ role extends beyond the prediction. He has negotiated four Mariners’ first-round contracts since 2020, including Ford and current pitcher Bryce Miller.
Fan expectations are high. The Seattle Times analysis warns of prospect burnout – only 30% of first-round picks become everyday players.
Ace Reese’s Message to Mariners Nation
Reese closed the interview with a clear message. “I want to be part of something special here. The prediction is just noise – the work is what matters.”
Follow Reese’s spring training journey and the Mariners’ full prospect ranking on MLB Pipeline.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: What did Scott Boras predict about the Seattle Mariners?
- A: Mega-agent Scott Boras said the Mariners’ young core, including Ace Reese and Kade Anderson, could ‘redefine the AL West,’ marking a generational shift in Seattle’s pipeline.
- Q: How did Ace Reese respond to Boras’ prediction?
- A: Reese said he is not trying to prove Boras wrong but rather prove him right, showing his commitment to fulfilling the high expectations.
- Q: What was included in Ace Reese’s contract with the Mariners?
- A: Reese signed a contract with a $5.2 million signing bonus, which is 10% above slot value, negotiated by Scott Boras.
- Q: What did Ace Reese do during his first trip to Seattle?
- A: Reese’s itinerary included coffee at Pike Place Market, a visit to the Space Needle, and batting practice at T-Mobile Park.
Extended Reading
For detailed scouting reports on Reese and the Mariners’ 2025 draft class, refer to the Seattle Times coverage and MLB.com’s signing announcement.