The Mariners selected Alen Jokistan, a right-handed pitcher from Utah Valley State College, with the fourth overall selection (118th overall).

Tue, 05 May 2026 05:40:48 +0000

**Why The Mariners selected Alen Jokistan, a right-handed pitcher from Utah Valley State College, with the fourth overall pick (118th overall) — and What It Means** In the evolving landscape of college baseball and MLB scouting, talk is growing around a standout prospect: The Mariners selected Alen Jokistan, a right-handed pitcher from Utah Valley State College, with the fourth overall pick in the 2025 draft — widely recognized as one of the top 10 selections. This decision isn’t just a draft footnote—it reflects broader trends in talent evaluation, regional development, and the strategic shift toward versatile, high-efficiency pitchers in modern baseball. With so many programs striving to build sustainable, win-now prospects, the Mariners’ choice underscores a focus on raw potential paired with adaptability. Jokistan’s profile aligns with emerging priorities: elite velocity, command under pressure, and the ability to adapt mid-inning—qualities increasingly valued in today’s fast-paced, analytics-driven game. ## Why The Mariners selected Alen Jokistan, a right-handed pitcher from Utah Valley State College, with the fourth overall selection