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I completely understand and agree with your philosophy regarding top draft picks. But it's hard to believe the Mariners didn't think Clement would stick behind the plate. I can't believe they picked him third overall in order to play first base. His whole value as such a high pick, #3, was based precisely on sticking behind the plate. They were drooling over a power hitting catcher.
Definitely the scouting and decision making was flawed. But both players moved fast and early - showing that the talent AT THAT TIME was real. It's not like either of those guys were languishing in the low/mid minors, like a Baron, a Poythress - or a Tito Nanni/Al Chambers. Or a Ryan Christiensen unable to succeed past high A. I guess all I'm saying is that early indications suggested these were two good picks.