Mariners Weigh Deal for Top Prospect Adam Jones

The sudden halt to the Mariners plans to call up top outfield prospect Adam Jones points toward a potential blockbuster deal in which Jones would be dealt for pitching before Tuesday's non-waiver trade deadline.

Jones, 21 -- a 2003 second round pick -- is batting .313 at Triple A Tacoma with 24 homers and 81 RBI in 96 games. Jones had been thought to be ready for major league action some two weeks ago, when the team abruptly decided to hold him back.

With the likelihood that an unexpected new offer for Jones was thrown over the front office transom, expect management to use what little time remains to carefully weigh all the options.