Prospect Report - Jeff Clement

Jeff Clement had an up-and-down first full season, being hampered by injuries yet still reaching Triple-A. The big question is how close is he to being big-league ready?

More than likely, Clement will be back at Triple-A Tacoma to start the season. And as farm director Frank Mattox pointed out, it's only 30 miles down the road.

That being said, Clement still has much to work on, both offensively and behind the plate. Because of injuries, he really didn't get to develop his game-calling and other defensive skills as everyone would have hoped in 2006. That will be a focus this spring and on into the season. Unfortunately, a bruised finger has held him back from playing in camp. Assuming he can stay healthy, it sounds like the clock will be ticking and he just needs some playing time to show he's ready. "We won't hold him back," Mattox said. "When he's ready, we'll make sure he has the opportunity to play."

But where? Mattox says there is no plan to have him work at another position. Besides, even if the Mariners had him play first base, Richie Sexson is there. So for now, he'll work on becoming a better all-around catcher, though some feel he's destined to become a very young DH. "The plan is to develop him as a catcher, and that's it," Mattox said. "If it changes, we'll let him know. My goal is to get him ready for when he does get the call. He's very driven and focused. We want to put him in a position that's best for Jeff Clement and for the Mariners."