Chih-Hsien Chiang

It was not a surprise that the Mariners held off on promoting Ackley last season to delay his service clock. What was a bit surprising was just how easily Ackley seemingly adjusted to major-league pitching after his mid-season callup. Ackley totaled 29 extra-base hits and 40 walks in 90 games, the latter mark ranking third among rookies despite the limited number of plate appearances. To top it off, he stole six bags without being caught. Ackley hit .304 as late as Sept. 6 but finished the year in a .164 slump over the final 20 games to drop his average to .273. That was the only blemish on an otherwise standout rookie season. Second base is his for the foreseeable future in Seattle.