Mariners' Juan Querecuto: Mariners sign Venezuelan SS prospect

Querecuto signed a $1.225 million deal with the Mariners on Sunday.

At 6-foot-3, 175 pounds, it's easy to get excited about what Querecuto's body might look like in four or five years. He lacks a plus tool offensively and is a below-average runner, which has some evaluators concerned about his ability to stick at shortstop long-term. Those who are highest on Querecuto see a polished player with a high baseball IQ who could grow into average or better power. He doesn't project to have a plus hit tool, but he has good pitch recognition, so strikeouts shouldn't be a major issue.