The Mariners’ young right-hander, Sloan, showcased his immense potential in a dazzling performance against one of the most promising lineups in baseball during the MLB Spring Breakout. Facing a team with the top-ranked farm system, Sloan delivered an impeccable outing: nine batters up, nine batters down, with just 39 pitches and three strikeouts.
Sloan approached the game with a focused mindset, saying, “I’m not going to let the environment dictate my process.” This philosophy has been his guiding principle since his first Spring Training game, allowing him to maintain control and composure.
Despite the Mariners falling 7-3 to Milwaukee’s prospects, Sloan’s dominance was evident from the start. He struck out the leadoff hitter, Jett Williams, with a 96.5 mph sinker that danced into the zone at the last moment.
In the second inning, Sloan unleashed a 97.5 mph four-seamer, climbing the ladder to get Luis Lara swinging. For his final strikeout, Sloan used a slider against Brock Wilken, demonstrating not just power, but precise control-an attribute the Mariners highly value.
“We're going to challenge him to take that execution a little step further,” said Trent Blank, the Mariners’ director of pitching strategy. “Not just control, but see if we can find some command.”
Milwaukee’s lineup featured four top prospects, including Jesús Made and Luis Peña, yet Sloan allowed only one hard-hit ball-a 95.9 mph groundout by Cooper Pratt. His ability to generate whiffs and limit hard contact is a testament to his skill and confidence. “I know I have good stuff, and I want the hitter to feel that,” Sloan remarked.
While Sloan faced Minor Leaguers, these players are considered among the brightest future stars. His start on Friday was a nod to his impressive spring, marking his first big league camp. At just 20 years old, Sloan is already the Mariners’ No. 3 prospect and ranks No. 33 overall in MLB Pipeline.
“Sloan was a high school kid but obviously doesn't look like a high school kid,” Blank noted. “Lots of strikes, and it's not just with the heaters. It's strikes with the secondaries as well.”
The Mariners have yet to decide where Sloan will begin the regular season, but Double-A Arkansas is a possibility, given it’s where they typically send top pitching prospects. Last year, between High-A Everett and Single-A Modesto, Sloan posted a 3.73 ERA with 90 strikeouts over 82 innings.
While a rapid ascent isn’t currently on the agenda, Sloan’s potential is undeniable. His journey is just beginning, and the Mariners are excited to see where his talent will take him.