No. 2 prospect Felnin Celesten headlines Mariners’ 7 int’l signings

The Mariners announced seven international signings Sunday, a list that is headlined by a highly-touted player who was long rumored to be joining the organization.

Dipoto Show: Future for J.P. Crawford, the value of Mariners making playoffs

Felnin Celesten, a 17-year-old shortstop from the Dominican Republic, tops Seattle’s signings on the opening day of this international signing period as he is the No. 2 prospect from this international class as ranked by MLB Pipeline.

Per a press release from the Mariners, the 6-foot-1 switch-hitter is “regarded as a potential five-tool player with a dynamic skillset and high ceiling. He showcases elite athleticism, with above average speed and raw power from both sides of the plate.”

Frankie Thon Jr., Mariners director of international amateur scouting, added his thoughts in the press release.

“Getting to know Felnin as a person has been just as rewarding as getting to evaluate him as a player. The flair, confidence, and swagger that he displays between the lines is complimented by a soft-spoken, polite, and thoughtful disposition off the field. Felnin certainly has all the ingredients to eventually grow into an impactful member of the Mariners organization, in every sense of the word.”

The Mariners know the value of international signings as much as any team, as it’s how both former superstar Félix Hernández (Venezuela, 2002), who is going into the team’s Hall of Fame this year, and reigning American League Rookie of the Year Julio Rodríguez (Dominican Republic, 2017) originally joined the franchise.

The full list of Mariners international signings announced Sunday includes two infielders, two outfielders, a catcher and two right-handed pitchers.

“As always, the first day of the international signing period is a joyous occasion that acts as a yearly reminder of why we, as scouts, love what we do,” Thon said. “To witness the moment that these young players, from diverse countries and backgrounds, achieve their dreams while taking that first step towards their ultimate professional goal… it’s something that we as a staff will surely never take for granted.”

Below is the full list of announced Mariners international signings:

• Felnin Celesten, SS, Dominican Republic
• Kelvin Alcantara, OF, Dominican Republic
• Delfry Carrasco, INF, Dominican Republic
• Sebastian De Andrade, C, Venezuela
• Kendal Meza, RHP, Nicaragua
• Ruddy Navarro, RHP, Dominican Republic
• Kay Robles, OF, Dominican Republic

To read more on each of the players, read the full press release here or this breakdown of the Mariners’ signings from MLB.com.

Dipoto: Mariners’ plan for OF A.J. Pollock, what’s left to do this offseason

Follow @BrentStecker