New York Yankees 2020 Top 50 Prospects

Estevan Florial - photo credit Benjamin Rush, forloveofbaseball on Flickr

The Yankees are loaded with talent. Some of the talent seems more of a sure thing then others. I believe the Yankees will end up trading some of the talent to help the parent club in 2020 or soon thereafter. They have done a good job in the international market. I was once told by a minor leaguer that he is playing for 29 other teams’ eyes as well as his team, that is definitely the case for some of the prospects in the Yankees system! The surplus of middle of the rotation arms and outfielders will be the first to choose from in trades. One of the biggest issues on the farm is lack of middle infield prospects. However, when you look at the system as a whole, the Yankees remain one of the deepest systems in baseball. They have their usual supply of diamond-in-the-rough pitching finds, toolsy international free agents, and some slick fielding infielders. Based on the sheer amount of toolsy young players in the Yankees’ system, I expect enough of them to shine to push the Yankees back into above-average status in just a short period of time. The Yankees continue to push their top prospects with challenging assignments, which is sometimes reflected by the numbers the prospect puts up. Injuries were a huge issue throughout the system in 2019 and I’m hoping that everyone stays healthy in 2020!


Prospects1500 Tiers:
Tier 1: Players with high expectations of both making the majors and playing at an All-Star level for a number of years
Tier 2: Players with an above average expectation of making the majors and being a solid contributor
Tier 3: Players with an average expectation of making the majors and being a solid contributor
Tier 4: Players who have the potential of making the majors, or have high likelihood of making the majors but providing minimal impact (e.g. middle reliever, low-ceiling UT guys)
Tier 5: Players who are worth keeping an eye on, but likely to never make a team’s 40-man roster



Tier 1

1. Jasson Dominguez, OF
Age: 16
2019 Highest Level: N/A
I struggled to put Dominguez in Tier 1 since he has not even swung a bat against MiLB pitching stateside during a game. Dominguez, who is nicknamed The Martian and was named after former Yankee Jason Giambi, was signed out of the Dominican for $5.1 million in 2019. He is strong and athletic with a mature body for his age. He has a smooth, short and compact swing with excellent bat speed from both sides of the plate. The ball jumps off of his bat with extra pop. He has shown good bat control and can drive the ball into the gaps and hit for power to all fields. Dominguez squares up the ball and has an advanced approach with a good understanding of the strike zone. He’s also good baserunner with good speed. He’s known for getting good leads and a quick first jump. He has a true chance at being a 30/30 player annually. On defense, Dominguez has shown good footwork and soft hands, and he takes good routes. He possesses plus arm strength and throws the ball on a line. He loves the sport and has a reputation for being a baseball rat who is always working on a different part of his game. Scouts do compare him to a young Mike Trout. I will be trying to grab Dominguez in every dynasty league I am in. ETA: 2024


Tier 2

2. Clarke Schmidt, RHP
Age: 23
2019 Highest Level: AA Trenton
2019 Stats: 19 G, 18 GS, 90.2 IP, 6-5, 102 K, 3.47 ERA, 1.18 WHIP
The Yankees drafted Schmidt 16th overall in 2017. The former South Carolina right-hander had to wait until June 2018 to make his minor league debut because of Tommy John surgery. Schmidt ended his impressive first season at Double-A Trenton with a 3.47 ERA and 2.68 FIP in 90.2 innings across three levels. His fastball sits between 92-94 mph and tops off at 96. He has a fantastic four-pitch mix, with a fastball, low-80s curveball, mid-80s slider and a changeup. He should start the season with Trenton and could do well enough to get a late season call up. However, Schmidt only has 124.2 career minor league innings between the regular season and postseason so do not expect him to be ready to throw 200 MLB innings right away. ETA: Late 2020

3. Deivi Garcia, RHP
Age: 20
2019 Highest Level: AAA Scranton/Wilkes-Barre
2019 Stats: 26 G, 21 GS, 111.1 IP, 5-9, 165 K, 4.28 ERA, 1.35 WHIP
Signed for just $200,000 out of the Dominican Republic in 2015, this 20-year-old has underwhelming size at 5’9” 163 pounds, but the movement and command of his fastball make it a plus pitch as it regularly hits 93-96. He backs it up with a high spin curveball with depth, which maybe his best pitch, and an above-average changeup that is still developing but should be able to be a strong third pitch. He has made a lot of progress in 2019 in both controlling his pitches and commanding the ball. With very clean mechanics and a low-effort delivery there is a lot to like about him as he has no trouble repeating his delivery. He moved up the ladder rather quickly in 2019 beginning the season in A+ and reaching AAA in July. He could end up a reliever down the line if it is determined he is too small to hold up to the rigors of being a starter in the big leagues. He did work as a reliever late in the season with Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. He was added to the 40 man roster this off season to protect him in the Rule 5 Draft. Trenton Thunder manager Pat Osborn compared him to Pedro Martinez and as a Yankees fan I sure hope he’s right! ETA: Mid 2020


4. Estevan Florial, OF
Age: 22
2019 Highest Level: A+ Tampa
2019 Stats: 74 G, 301 PA, .237/.297/.383/.680, 8 HR, 38 RBI, 9 SB
Florial’s swing contains plus bat speed and will develop plus power in the future. His swing possesses a high leg kick that will assist with his power. Even though he has been pull dominant thus far in his career, his strength actually comes into play when he goes to left-center field. Florial is a plus runner. I would give him at least a 70 grade on the 20-80 scouting scale. He has the potential to be a 30/30 player. With the bat speed and lofty in his left-handed swing he can take advantage of Yankee Stadium. One concern is that he is still very raw and at time gets overly aggressive as a hitter since he’s so young, this leads to concerns about whether he can make enough contact to realize his full potential. He should stick in center field but he has plus arm strength which will allow him to be successful as a corner outfielder should the organization choose to move him from center. He has a great first step and plus reactions. Backs up every pitch and is moving on every ball in play. Possesses plus arm strength and throws the ball on a line. He must try and stay healthy after having fluky injuries the last few years, even as recently as 2019. He spent two months on the IL from fracturing his right wrist well crashing into the center-field wall during Spring Training. It’s the second straight season Florial has dealt with right wrist problems. He played just 84 games in 2018 due to hamate bone surgery. The Yankees added Florial to the 40 man roster in the offseason to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft. ETA: 2022


5. Luis Gil, RHP
Age: 21
2019 Highest Level: A+ Tampa
2019 Stats: 20 G, 20 GS, 96 IP, 5-5, 123 K, 2.72 ERA, 1.23 WHIP
When the Yankees needed roster space after signing Neil Walker in March 2018, they designated Jake Cave for assignment and traded him to Minnesota for Gil. Boy has that trade worked out! Gil had shoulder surgery in 2016 and missed the season but it hasn’t affected his development. Gil’s big arm helps him regularly hit 94-98 mph and reach 101 mph with his four-seam fastball. He keeps his velocity deep into his starts and can blow his heater by hitters up in the strike zone. He can also miss bats with an excellent power curveball that has exceptional spin rates and a decent changeup that’s still a work in progress. He has trouble keeping his delivery in sync and repeating his release point, which makes it difficult for him to harness his overpowering stuff at times. He may wind up as a dynamic late-inning reliever or closer but because of his rapport he may work better as a reliever. The Yankees added Gil to the 40 man roster to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft. ETA: 2022

6. Kevin Alcantara, OF
Age: 17
2019 Highest Level: DSL Yankees
2019 Stats: 41 G, 174 PA, .255/.305/.360/.665, 1 HR, 19 RBI, 5 SB
Alcantara just oozes raw tools and raw upside. He is a physical specimen at 6’6” 190 and still has time to grow being only 17 years old. He has potential for plus tools across the board once he fills out and adds more muscle. His size gives him great leverage and naturally adds length to his stroke, which he has displayed the ability to make consistent. A right-handed hitter with a ton of bat speed and strength, he should stay in center field with his plus speed and quality defense. Alcantara has plenty of arm to play anywhere in the OF. He is years away from Yankee Stadium but has one of the highest ceilings in the organizations. ETA: 2023

7. Luis Medina, RHP
Age: 20
2019 Highest Level: A+ Tampa
2019 Stats: 22 G, 22 GS, 103.2 IP, 1-8, 127 K, 5.47 ERA, 1.57 WHIP
Medina was signed by the Yankees as an international free agent out of the Dominican Republic for 0,000 in 2015. His fastball sits in the mid-90s, sometimes hitting triple digits. He has two secondary pitches, a curveball and changeup. Both are above-average right now but have the potential to become plus pitches in the future. He is still young and extremely raw. He does lack the ability to locate his pitches too often. He threw 27 wild pitches in 2019. If he can get his location under control at a reasonable rate he has the potential to be an ace and will move up even further in my rankings. In my opinion he has the most upside of any Yankees pitching prospect. ETA: Late 2022

8. Antonio Cabello, OF
Age: 18
2019 Highest Level: Rookie Pulaski
2019 Stats: 56 G, 251 PA, .211/.280/.330/.610, 3 HR, 19 RBI, 5 SB
Signed originally as a catcher in 2017, I was impressed with his athleticism when he moved to CF. After an encouraging 2018 he scuffled as an 18 year old in the APPY league with Pulaski in 2019. Cabello stood out in the Gulf Coast League in 2018, where he showed plus potential as a hitter with great bat speed. In addition, he possesses plus running and throwing ability. Even though he struggled in the APPY League this past season, his raw tools are still there, and league managers praise his approach to the game. He does sometimes tend to expand the strike zone and chase balls. Cabello has the tool set to become an impact everyday player, but he may have physically maxed out as well. The power/speed combo is real here. ETA: 2023

9. Miguel Yajure, RHP
Age: 21
2019 Highest Level: AA Trenton
2019 Stats: 24 G, 20 GS, 138.2 IP, 9-6, 133 K, 2.14 ERA, 1.07 WHIP
Yajure, who signed for $30,000 out of Venezuela, is one of the more polished young arms in the system and his stuff has ticked up since he came back from the Tommy John surgery that cost him the entire 2017 season. Yajure got stronger during the grueling rehab process after having his elbow reconstructed, and he now operates at 92-95 mph with his fastball. His best pitch is a solid to plus changeup that keeps left-handers honest. He has added a cutter this year that has similar potential but it is a work in progress. He also has feel for spinning a curveball that should be at least an average offering. While Yajure isn’t overpowering, he has a long history of throwing strikes and commands his pitches well. He pounds the bottom of the strike zone and generates a lot of soft ground ball contact. He’s on the path to becoming a mid-rotation starter. ETA: 2021

10. Yoendrys Gomez, RHP
Age: 20
2019 Highest Level: A Charleston
2019 Stats: 12 G, 12 GS, 56.1 IP, 4-5, 53 K, 3.99 ERA, 1.30 WHIP
Gomez was signed for just $50,000 as an international free agent in July 2016. He throws a fastball between 92-97, with a high spin rate and downhill plane. He also throws a high spin curveball in the upper 70s and is working on a changeup that has shown at times it could develop into a plus pitch. He has a clean high three quarters delivery that he sometimes has a hard time repeating. He has the upside to be a number 2 if the Yankees will be patient with his development. ETA: Late 2022

11. Maikol Escotto, 2B/SS
Age: 17
2019 Highest Level: DSL Yankees
2019 Stats: 45 G, 218 PA, .315/.429/.552/.981, 8 HR, 26 RBI, 13 SB
Maikol signed with the Yankees for 0,000 on July 2, 2018. The ball seems to just jump off his bat. At one point in the 2019 season he was averaging an exit velocity of 95 miles per hour, with 20% of his hits above that mark. Escotto was billed as having gap power when the Yankees signed him, but his eight home runs show that the young infielder is developing more pop in his bat. He also showed solid plate discipline, walking 14.7% of the time, en route to the ninth-best OPS in the DSL at .981, to go along with an outstanding 167 wRC+. Escotto played all around the infield this past season, with 23 games at second base, and eight each at third base and shortstop. Escotto was one of the most productive performers in the DSL, making the All-Star team. In the field Escotto has shown strong ability demonstrating above-average speed, a good arm, and has drawn some comparisons to former Met Jose Reyes. Escotto is expected to make his stateside debut in 2020 and could move quickly up prospect lists with his strong numbers and natural athleticism. ETA: 2023


12. Alexander Vargas, SS
Age: 18
2019 Highest Level: DSL
2019 Stats: 48 G, 217 PA, .233/.313/.373/.686, 1 HR, 18 RBI, 15 SB
Vargas has solid hitting actions and a good feel for the strike zone leading him to make consistent contact. However, because he’s so thin and has little strength, Vargas does little damage when he does connect, so getting stronger will be vital for his development. He is a plus runner who stole 13 bases without getting caught in the GCL. Vargas sticks out for his defensive skills at shortstop. He is an athletic defender with a quick first step and good range. His hands and feet work well and his field awareness is advanced for his age. He has a fearless approach on offense and defense and has wowed scouts with his ability to track down fly balls in center field. His ceiling is a .290 hitter with mid-teens homers and 30 plus steals and his floor is a solid utility infielder. ETA: 2023

13. Osiel Rodriguez, RHP
Age: 17
2019 Highest Level: DSL
2019 Stats: 5 G, 4 GS, 9.2 IP, 0-1, 9 K, 5.59 ERA, 1.66 WHIP
A 17-year-old from Cuba, Rodriguez was considered one of the top pitchers in the 2018 international signing class, signing for $600,000 with New York. He was slowed by a minor shoulder injury in his debut season. He only pitched 9.2 innings, with six earned runs, nine strikeouts, and four walks. It was an inconclusive introduction to professional ball for this well-regarded arm. He has an electric arm that produces 92-95 mph fastballs that top out at 97, with high spin rates that give them extra life up in the strike zone. His hard curveball is a bit more effective than his harder slider, with both displaying the potential to become plus pitches. His changeup has splitter action and similar upside but is a work in progress. He doesn’t have the cleanest arm action and there’s effort in his delivery the Yankees will have to work on with him. Rodriguez has a huge ceiling, as his chances to develop four plus offerings could make him a frontline starter. Once he can get his high 90s fastball under control, the results are sure to follow. I’m very bullish on Rodriguez. ETA: 2023


Tier 3

14. Anthony Garcia, OF
Age: 19
2019 Highest Level: Rookie Pulaski
2019 Stats: 6 G, 24 PA, .294/.417/.706/1.123, 2 SB, 1 HR, 8 RBI, 0 SB
Garcia was signed during the 2017 international market period for $500,000 as a 16-year-old Dominican. His body and reputation grew in his first year in pro ball, as he added 25 pounds and topped the Rookie-level Gulf Coast League with 10 homers in 2018. A switch-hitter, Garcia is more effective left-handed but his gargantuan raw power is obvious from either side of the plate. He may have the most power of any player on this list. He has an extremely aggressive approach and a naturally long swing, which resulted in a 41 percent strikeout rate during his pro debut. While it’s easy to dream on his bat speed and strength, he’s going to have to make much more contact to deliver on his power potential. Garcia moves surprisingly well for his size (6’5”204 lbs). He could become an average defender on either outfield corner if he works diligently on his defense and maintains his current athleticism. His arm earns average to solid grades from evaluators. Missed much of 2019 with injuries. ETA: 2023


15. Canaan Smith, OF
Age: 20
2019 Highest Level: A Charleston
2019 Stats: 124 G, 528 PA, .307/.405/.465/.871, 32 2B, 11 HR, 74 RBI, 16 SB
Smith led the Rookie-level Gulf Coast League with 46 free passes in his pro debut in 2017 and then stumbled in his 2018 encore before getting back on track in low Class A this year. Smith has the bat speed, strength and discipline to hit for power and average from the left side of the plate. Smith sometimes gets away from his consistent approach and struggles but he thrives once he regains his patience and drives the ball to all fields. He will take a walk but is always looking to do damage with the XBH and sometimes chases a bad pitch because of it. He’s also a solid runner and stole 16 of 20 bases in 2019. With solid arm strength, he’s capable of playing either outfield corner, and he did some catching in high school. His profile is very exciting with a chance to be a full-time regular as a corner outfielder with 20 plus home run potential and a high on-base percentage. I personally am very excited to see what 2020 has in store for Canaan. Fun Canaan fact: In 2019 with Charleston he was the first RiverDogs player to hit for the cycle since 1997 when Matt Quatraro did it. ETA: 2022


16. Anthony Volpe, SS
Age: 18
2019 Highest Level: Rookie Pulaski
2019 Stats: 34 G, 150 PA, .215/.349/.355/.704, 2 HR, 11 RBI, 6 SB
The 30th overall pick in the 2019 MLB Draft, Volpe uses his compact swing with above average bat speed to spray line drives all over the field. Once he grows stronger he should hit double digit homers with ease. He possesses the natural instincts and impressive bat speed along with a great baseball IQ to improve quickly with additional at-bats. With his above average grades on everything expect power. He is an excellent defensive prospect at shortstop with quick reflexes and an advanced feel for the position. If he has to change positions he has enough arm to play second or third as well. ETA: 2023

17. Roansy Contreras, RHP
Age: 20
2019 Highest Level: A Charleston
2019 Stats: 24 G, 24 GS, 132.1 IP, 12-5, 113 K, 3.33 ERA, 1.07 WHIP
Contreras heater sits in the mid 90s range usually averaging between 93-97. It generates high spin rate and has riding action up in the strike zone. He also possesses a hard curve ball in the mid 70s with good spin. He is making progress learning a changeup, but it should be at least an average offering . He repeats his delivery well and is always in the strike zone. He has very sound mechanics, good strength and athleticism that should allow him to develop into a strong number 3 starter. ETA: Late 2022


18. Anthony Seigler, C
Age: 20
2019 Highest Level: A Charleston
2019 Stats: 30 G, 120 PA, .175/.328/.206/.534 , 0 HR, 6 RBI, 1 SB
New York made the switch hitting Seigler the first prep backstop selected, signing him for $2,815,900 as the 23rd overall pick in the 2018 draft. A proficient hitter from both sides of the plate, Seigler controls the strike zone and drills line drives to all fields. He is more of a doubles type of hitter but could develop into a 15-20 homer type catcher as he grows. He has a contact-oriented approach with solid bat speed, and while he’s not loaded with raw power, he has the hitting ability to get the most out of what he has. He’s close to an average runner and has good instincts on the bases and in all phases of the game. He’s extremely athletic for being a catcher and could develop into a Gold Glover behind the plate. He has good receiving and framing potential, and his plus arm plays even better because he has such a quick transfer. Seigler only played in 30 games in 2019 due to a patella fracture. He apparently called for a slider, got a fastball and got crossed up, which led to the injury on July 20th but at only 20 he has plenty of time to develop. ETA: 2022

19. Everson Pereira, OF
Age: 18
2019 Highest Level: A- Staten Island
2019 Stats: 18 G, 74 PA, .171/.216/.257/.473, 1 HR, 3 RBI, 3 SB
Pereira can hit the fastball well but is still adjusting to off-speed pitches which has led to a lot of his strikeouts. The ball jumps off his bat thanks to its impressive speed, and he possesses a line-drive swing with gap-to-gap power. His bat path, bat control, balance, and pitch recognition skills all have earned high praise among scouts. Pereira is a centerfielder by trade and looks to have the speed, instincts and arm to stay at the position as he ages. In July he tweaked his ankle running into the padding at the bottom of the video board. The force of the collision broke the padding off the wall and the injury is forcing him to miss the rest of the year. After holding his own in the APPY league in 2018, the Yankees assigning him to the college-heavy NYPL in 2019 was a little bullish and shows their confidence in their tools. Rival scouts liked what they saw as well. ETA: 2023

20. Alexander Vizcaino, RHP
Age: 22
2019 Highest Level: A+ Tampa
2019 Stats: 21 G, 21 GS, 115 IP, 6-6, 128 K, 4.38 ERA, 1.31 WHIP
Vizcaino typically operated at 94-98 mph and peaked at 100 for his fastball. His changeup can be equally devastating in the low 90s with splitter action. His breaking ball is a work in progress as he has increased the spin rate on his low-80s curveball and it has shown some signs of becoming a solid offering. Vizcaino’s ability to refine his command will determine whether he winds up as a starter or reliever. If he can continue to improve he could start to advance quickly. While he’s still a work in progress, his stuff has taken a leap forward and could make him a number 3 starter if he reaches his ceiling. ETA: 2022

21. Raimfer Salinas, OF
Age: 18
2019 Highest Level: Rookie (Gulf Coast League)
2019 Stats: 53 G, 221 PA, .270/.329/.415/.745, 10 2B, 3 HR, 15 RBI, 11 SB
After signing with the Yankees as one of the top rated players in the 2017 international signing class, Salinas only played 11 games between the DSL and GCL in an injury plagued debut season. He bounced back nicely this season, playing consistently while manning center field. At the plate, Salinas has shown an advanced approach and good bat speed. He sprays the ball to all fields while also showing some home run power. Salinas is already a decent runner. He’s also a sound defender and his plus arm is already an asset. He should be able to stick to center field.
He has real potential to be a legitimate five-tool player and an impact player in the near future. ETA: 2021

22. Albert Abreu, RHP
Age: 23
2019 Highest Level: AA Trenton
2019 Stats: 23 G, 20 GS, 96.2 IP, 5-8, 91 K, 4.28 ERA, 1.61 WHIP
The Yankees traded Brian McCann to the Astros in November 2016 for Abreu and fellow right-handed pitching prospect Jorge Guzman (whom they later spun to the Marlins in a deal for Giancarlo Stanton). That trade sure seemed to work for both teams. The Astros won a World Series (McCann caught every inning of the World Series in 2017) and the Yankees got a top pitching prospect and Stanton. All of Abreu’s pitches grade out as plus or better when he commands them. His fastball hits mid 90s and tops out at 101 with some sink and run. He also owns a power breaking ball that wipes out right handers. Abreu owns a curveball and changeup as well. His short-arm delivery provides deception but sometimes hampers him from locating his pitches. If he can’t find better command, he could end up in the bullpen in high leverage situations. ETA: Late 2020

23. Michael King, RHP
Age: 24
2019 Highest Level: MLB
2019 MiLB Stats: 11 G, 8 GS, 46 IP, 3-2, 44 K, 5.48 ERA, 1.24 WHIP
2019 MLB Stats: 1 G, 0 GS, 2 IP, 0-0, 1 K, 0.00 ERA, 1.00 WHIP
King missed the first half of the 2019 season due to a stress reaction in his elbow, but still was able to make his New York debut pitching in one game for the Yankees in 2019. His arsenal is based around impeccable command and control rather than the ability to blow it by guys. King possesses a two-seam fastball that sits between 92-95 mph. He can run or sink his heater to either corner of the plate. He’s an extreme ground-ball pitcher with a career groundout/air out ratio of 1.7 through his first three pro seasons. Both King’s slider and changeup can be solid pitches when they’re working with his slider being marginally better. He has the best control and command among Yankees pitching prospects and one of the highest floors as well. Regarded as a finesse right-hander who might fit at the back of a rotation during his career, but now he appears to be more than that. ETA: 2020


24. Trevor Stephan, RHP
Age: 23
2019 Highest Level: AA Trenton
2019 Stats: 20 G, 19 GS, 80 IP, 4-7, 91 K, 4.73 ERA, 1.44 WHIP
Stephan relies on his fastball, which gets a heavy dose of swings and misses within the strike zone. His fastball sits between 90-95 mph and touches 97 with significant running action that comes from his deceptive crossfire and uphill delivery. After struggling to develop a curveball, he scrapped it and had more success with a slider/cutter that has high spin rates. His changeup is more of a work in progress after he relied mostly on his fastball in college and the lower levels, and it as effective in Double-A. He usually throws strikes and commands his fastball to both sides of the plate, though he struggled more than usual to locate his pitches after his promotion. There are some questions as to whether his delivery and arm action are suitable for starting every fifth day. I envision him being a middle of rotation starter or long reliever/spot starter. ETA: 2020

Trevor Stephan, Trenton Thunder – Double-A Eastern League (NYY). Photo credit Bill Stephan on Flickr

25. T.J. Sikkema, LHP
Age: 21
2019 Highest Level: A- Staten Island
2019 Stats: 4 G, 4 GS, 10.2 IP, 0-0, 13 K, 0.84 ERA, 0.66 WHIP
The 38th overall pick out of Missouri in the 2019 MLB Draft Sikkema usually pitches at 89-91 mph with run and sink on his fastball from a lower three-quarters slot. He also can raise his arm angle and reach back for 93-95 mph when needed. HIs 78-83 mph slider features high spin rates and can be a plus offering when it’s on. He also has nice feel for his sinking changeup and the trust to use it in any count. Sikkema’s stocky frame and crossfire delivery aren’t the prettiest, but his stuff plays up because of the angle and extension he creates. He had one of the highest floors among college pitchers in the 2019 Draft, projecting as at least a lefty reliever in the majors with a good chance of becoming a back end of rotation starter. One positive about Sikkema is he’s supremely confident and not afraid of anyone or any situation on the mound. He could be moved quickly through the system since he was a college pitcher. Very safe floor as a back-end starter. ETA: 2022


Tier 4

26. Nick Nelson, RHP
Age: 23
2019 Highest Level: AAA Scranton/Wilkes-Barre
2019 Stats: 18 G, 17 GS, 89.2 IP, 8-3, 114 K, 2.81 ERA, 1.28 WHIP
His fastball is 94-98 mph and he has good stamina to maintain the velocity throughout a game. He also has a curveball that is a work in progress because at times he can’t get a strike with it. His splitter and slider are also still developing. After leading all Yankees pitching prospects in K/9 in 2018, he has picked up right where he left off, and then some. He has a strikeout rate of 11.5 K/9 over three levels this season. In April, he was placed on the IL and missed about a month and a half due to a shoulder injury. The Yankees plan to keep developing him as a starter but as a reliever he could make an impact much sooner. ETA: 2020

27. Josh Breaux, C
Age: 22
2019 Highest Level: A Charleston
2019 Stats: 51 G, 216 PA, .271/.324/.518/.842, 10 2B, 13 HR, 49 RBI, 0 SB
Extremely aggressive at the plate, Breaux has well above-average bat speed, strength and raw power. His approach will result in excessive strikeouts. He has shown good pop which resulted in 23 XBH in 51 games. Breaux still requires more polish to become a dependable receiver. Despite his pure arm strength, he won’t be able to control the running game until he improves his throwing accuracy. ETA: 2022

28. Garrett Whitlock, RHP
Age: 23
2019 Highest Level: AA Trenton
2019 Stats: 14 G, 14 GS, 70.1 IP, 3-3, 57 K, 3.07 ERA, 1.29 WHIP
The Yankees selected Whitlock in the 18th round in 2017. He went late in the draft due to back issues and questionable signability. Underwent Tommy John surgery in July 2019. Whitlock’s low-three-quarters delivery produces 91-94 mph two-seam fastballs with tremendous sink, leading to a ton of ground balls. His number 2 pitch is low-80 slider with two-plane depth. He uses a decent changeup to keep left-handers in check. Hitters have a tough time picking up Whitlock’s pitches because he uses his 6-foot-5 frame to create impressive extension and unusual angle. He could also be valuable as a multi-inning reliever and his first opportunity in New York could come in that role. ETA: Late 2022

29. Josh Smith, 2B
Age: 22
2019 Highest Level: A- Staten Island
2019 Stats: 33 G, 141 PA, .324/.450/.477/.927, 3 HR, 15 RBI, 6 SB
The Yankees selected Smith in the 2nd round in 2019 draft (67th overall). Smith isn’t flashy but does a lot of things very well. He makes consistent contact from the left side of the plate, using the entire field to spray line drive. He manages the strike zone very well. He has solid raw power and drives the ball enough to hit 15 or more homers on an annual basis. He also has solid to plus speed and knows how to use it on the bases. A 15/15 player is very possible. Smith’s instincts are also apparent on defense, giving him a chance to stay at shortstop even if many scouts project him as a second baseman in the Majors. He provides steady glovework at shortstop with reliable hands and enough arm to make the necessary throws. He may not have a true plus tool, but he has no obvious holes in his game and should become at least a utilityman. ETA: 2022

30. Ryder Green, OF
Age: 19
2019 Highest Level: Rookie Pulaski
2019 Stats: 61 G, 254 PA, .262/.343/.444/.787, 8 HR, 28 RBI, 10 SB
Green has great bat speed and strength that create above-average raw power from the right side of the plate. He has a decent understanding of the strike zone but can lapse into selling out for home runs. When he did make contact in his first taste of pro ball, much of it came on rolled-over grounders to the left side of the infield. He shows average speed out of the batter’s box and is a solid runner once underway. Though he began his pro career in center field, his quickness and arm strength fit best in right. ETA: 2023

31. Oswald Peraza, SS
Age: 19
2019 Highest Level: A Charleston
2019 Stats: 65 G, 293 PA, .263/.332/.340/.672, 4 HR, 20 RBI, 23 SB
Peraza doesn’t have any loud tools but his instincts enable him to get the most out of his physical ability. He’ll need time but could develop into an everyday player. A right-handed hitter, Peraza has great bat-to-ball skill. He needs to develop more patience because he presently makes a lot of weak groundball contact. He controlled the strike zone very well striking out only 12% of the time while walking 7% of the time. He also showed good speed by stealing 23 bases. He does have some pull power and could produce double-digit home runs once he gets stronger. Both Peraza’s speed and arm earn solid to plus grades. He’s an aggressive runner with a knack for stealing bases and has smooth action in the field. He will end up in a utility role if he doesn’t hit enough to be a regular. ETA: 2022

32. Nolan Martinez, RHP
Age: 21
2019 Highest Level: A Charleston
2019 Stats: 7 G, 6 GS, 32.2 IP, 1-2, 21 K, 3.86 ERA, 1.10 WHIP
The Yankees took Martinez in the third round of the 2016 Draft, signing him for an above-slot $1.15 million. He totaled just 20 2/3 innings in his first two years as a pro because he’s not developed physically and had some minor shoulder issues in 2017. New York puts a lot of emphasis on spin rates, and Martinez had the highest (2,685 rpm) on his fastball at the 2015 World Wood Bat Association World Championship. Working with a 89-92 mph heater though he should gain velocity as he adds strength and has flashed a mid-90s heater during offseason workouts. His spin gives his fastball deceptive riding life that keeps it off barrels. Martinez also has good feel for spinning a curveball, but his changeup requires a lot of work because he didn’t use it much in high school. He repeats his clean delivery well and shouldn’t have any issues throwing strikes. He has the upside of a mid-rotation starter. ETA: 2022

33. Matt Sauer, RHP
Age: 20
2019 Highest Level: A Charleston
2019 Stats: 2 G, 2 GS, 8.2 IP, 0-1, 8 K, 2.08 ERA, 1.38 WHIP
Sauer the Yankees 2nd round pick in 2017 (54th overall) was assigned to Charleston to begin the season but only lasted 2 games until he went on the IR and ended up having season ending Tommy John surgery. Sauer operates with a 92-95 mph fastball which touches 97. He also possesses a power curveball and slider. His curveball has the upside to be a plus pitch while his slider will require more work. Sauer has the size for durability and the athleticism to throw strikes and make adjustments, so the Yankees envision him becoming a mid-rotation innings eater. Some scouts have concerns about his delivery, which features a long arm action and some head whack and crossfire, and think he’ll be better suited to being a reliever. ETA: 2023

34. Antonio Gomez, C
Age: 18
2019 Highest Level: DSL
2019 Stats: 15 G, 57 PA, .288/.351/.442/.793, 5 2B, 1 HR, 8 RBI, 0 SB
At only 18, offensively Gomez has displayed a good approach with an easy swing and easy power to the gaps. He could hit for more power in the future. Gomez has built a reputation for being durable and strong. He has a strong arm now and projects to have well-above-average arm strength. At his best, Gomez has displayed an impressive 1.7-1.75 pop time in workouts and 1.83 in games. He has shown sound receiving skills and is expected to improve on other parts of his defensive game framing and blocking. He profiles as an everyday catcher but he’s years away from the big leagues. A promotion in my rankings later this year is likely. ETA: 2025


35. Frank German, RHP
Age: 22
2019 Highest Level: A+ Tampa
2019 Stats: 19 G, 18 GS, 81 IP, 4-5, 87 K, 4.11 ERA, 1.40 WHIP
German’s fastball sits between 94-98, and he controls it well to both sides of the plate. He also throws a mid-80s slider with tight break and a changeup, both of his secondary pitches grade as average. He has a strong build and a delivery that he repeats well, German has the durability and pitch efficiency needed to be a back-of-the-rotation option. To stay in that role, he’ll probably need to improve either his slider or changeup to give him a solid second offering, otherwise he will end up a long reliever. ETA: 2022

36. Ezequiel Duran, 2B
Age: 20
2019 Highest Level: A- Staten Island
2019 Stats: 66 G, 277 PA, .256/.329/.496/.824, 13 HR, 37 RBI, 11 SB
Duran profiles as a bat-first second baseman. He opened eyes by slugging nearly .500 in the New York Penn League including leading the league with 13 bombs. Strong, athletic with great bat speed, Duran was also able to steal. He was successful in 11 out of 14 attempts. Unfortunately, he struck out 28% of the time and that is the area of focus for the 20-year-old as he enters the Sally League next season. Signed by the Yankees as an international free agent in 2017, for just $10,000 as an 18-year-old. He most likely ends up a backup infielder with a decent bat. ETA: 2023

37. Kyle Holder, SS
Age: 25
2019 Highest Level: AA Trenton
2019 Stats: 112 G, 472 PA, .265/.336/.405/.742, 25 2B, 9 HR, 40 RBI, 7 SB
Holder is a Gold Glover waiting to happen. He has a solid arm and had a .973 fielding percentage in Trenton in 2019. Concerns about Holder’s offense prevented him from being higher on this list. There is question about his bat speed and he might not be more than a contact hitter who drives the ball for doubles and draws a decent amount of walks. The Yankees have worked to improve his load and if you look at Holder’s season numbers in 2019, he hit .265/.336/.405 with 25 doubles, three triples, nine home runs, and 40 RBIs, they are very respectable. When you drill down you see he had a great season after a very bad first month. In April, he hit just.175/.246/.206 in 16 games. Holder then went on to hit .281/.352/.441 over the next 96 games with 23 doubles, three triples, nine home runs, and 35 RBIs. That includes an incredible June when he hit .337/.385/.566 in 23 games with a .362 BABIP. The potential for the bat to come around is here so I’m hoping he will be higher during my midseason top 50. ETA: 2021

38. Josh Stowers, OF
Age: 22
2019 Highest Level: A Charleston
2019 Stats: 105 G, 460 PA, .273/.386/.400/.786, 7 HR, 40 RBI, 35 SB
Drafted by the Mariners in the 2nd round of the 2018 draft, New York picked up Stowers as part of a three team trade with the Mariners and Reds before the 2019 season began. Second base prospect Shed Long and a Competitive Balance Round A pick went from the Reds to the Yankees in exchange for Sonny Gray and left-hander Reiver Sanmartin. New York, in turn flipped Long directly to the Mariners in return for center field prospect Josh Stowers whose speed is his defining trait. Stowers has a pretty right-handed swing that is direct to the ball and allows him to spray line drives from pole to pole, but he doesn’t generate much loft, so he only projects to have average power down the road. His plate discipline is razor sharp. With a thick lower half and a 6-foot-1, 200-pound frame, Stowers doesn’t look like the prototypical center fielder. His speed serves him well defensively, but his reads and routes need to improve to remain in center long-term. Stowers has a below-average arm, so if he can’t hack it in center field he will have to play in a corner. The long-term upside here is a good batting average with a high on-base percentage and lots of steals, but only teens in homers. He reminds me of a mini Jacoby Ellsbury. I’m a little higher on him than others. ETA: 2022


39. Brandon Lockridge, OF
Age: 22
2019 Highest Level: A Charleston
2019 Stats: 121 G, 556 PA, .251/.319/.410/.729, 33 2B, 12 HR, 56 RBI, 22 SB
Lockridge is intriguing because his blend of speed and power while playing center field. One of the fastest players in the 2018 Draft, he went in the fifth round. Lockridge is capable of recording sub-4.0-second times from the right side of the plate to first base. His speed earns grades from 70-80 on the 20-80 scouting scale. He’s still learning as a base stealer and is more than just a speedster. Lockridge has solid bat speed and raw power that could translate into 20 homers per season if he continues to improve as a hitter. He can get overly aggressive and pull-happy at times. His fringy arm may be his worst tool, he has a knack for running balls down from gap to gap in center field. ETA: 2022


Tier 5

40. Dermis Garcia, 1B
Age: 21
2019 Highest Level: A+ Tampa
2019 Stats: 75 G, 297 PA, .247/.296/.491/.787, 15 2B, 17 HR, 54 RBI, 4 SB
Garcia got the largest payout ($3 million) by the Yankees in their 2014 international crop. Garcia’s power is his carrying tool hitting 17 homers in 2019 with Tampa but also striking out in 105 times of his 297 plate appearances making him, in my opinion, the biggest boom-or-bust prospect in the system. Garcia’s outstanding bat speed and strength give him top-of-the-scale raw power, though it remains to be seen how much he’ll be able to tap into it against more advanced pitching. He still has trouble with recognizing pitches and handling off-speed offerings, and he has yet to prove he can make consistent contact. Garcia has displayed a willingness to accept walks, though he still chases pitches out of the strike zone with alarming frequency. As a below average runner Garcia signed as a third baseman but has moved to first in 2019. He has plenty of arm strength for third base, but he has limited range and a history of errors at the hot corner made the move to first necessary. He may never be more than an adequate defender there. New York has begun trying Garcia on the mound in bullpen sessions, during which he has shown a mid-90s fastball and some feel for spinning a curveball and using a changeup but I feel he stays in the field. At only 21 anything is possible. ETA: 2022


41. Jacob Sanford, OF
Age: 22
2019 Highest Level: A- Staten Island
2019 Stats: 60 G, 249 PA, .238/.289/.411/.700, 13 2B, 7 HR, 27 RBI, 3 SB
The Yankees selected Sanford in the 3nd round in 2019 draft (105th overall). Sanford generates impressive bat speed and packs plenty of strength and leverage in his 6-foot-2, 215-pound frame. There are some concerns about the deep load in his left-handed swing and a tendency to get off balance at times, but the quickness of his stroke and his hand-eye coordination make it work. In addition to his prestigious power, Sanford also offers plus speed. He has fringy arm strength (he was a first baseman in college), so he’ll fit better in left field as a pro. He’s came a long way since drawing no college scouting interest well in high school in Nova Scotia. Everyone raves about his work ethic and it shows. ETA: 2023

42. Glenn Otto, RHP
Age: 23
2019 Highest Level: A+ Tampa
2019 Stats: 17 G, 14 GS, 61.1 IP, 3-3, 74 K, 3.23 ERA, 1.50 WHIP
Otto sits between 92-95 mph with his fastball and peaks at 97. His spike curveball can be devastating and also hard to control, since it combines power and 12-to-6 break. Otto rarely employed a changeup in college, so adding a reliable third pitch will be a focal point of his development. Improving his control and command are also on his to-do list after he averaged 4.5 walks per nine innings at Rice. He has a strong frame and his arm works well, so he should have the durability required to start. ETA: 2022

43. Chris Gittens, 1B
Age: 25
Highest Level: AA Trenton
2019 Stats: 115 G, 478 PA, .281/.393/.500/.893, 16 2B, 23 HR, 77 RBI, 0 SB
One of my personal favorite prospects to root for in the Yankees system. I’m happy he did not get picked in the Rule 5 draft! In 2019 Gittens went on to be named the Trenton Thunder Player of the Year AND the 2019 Eastern League Most Valuable Player. If you want to know more about Chris Gittens give my Gittens player profile a read! ETA: Late 2020

Chris Gittens, Trenton Thunder, June 16, 2018 – Photo credit Bill Stephan on Flickr

44. Jake Agnos, LHP
Age: 21
2019 Highest Level: A- Staten Island
2019 Stats: 5 G, 4 GS, 12 IP, 1-2, 15 K, 5.25 ERA, 1.50 WHIP
Agnos was the American Athletic Conference’s 2019 pitcher of the year. He set the East Carolina Pirates records for single-season strikeouts (124 in 83 innings through the regular season) and consecutive scoreless innings. Agnos is just 5-foot-11 but produces an 88-93 mph fastball and tops out at 95 with a combination of arm speed and an effortful delivery. His best pitch is his plus curveball in the upper 70s with 12-6 break when at its best. He also can display a decent changeup, but struggles with his feel for the pitch. Agnos’ size, mechanics and inconsistent command could point him to the bullpen in pro ball. Working in shorter stints, he could have two plus pitches with a harder fastball and curve. He may get an opportunity to prove what he can do as a starter, but he could accelerate quickly to the big leagues as a reliever. He started in 3 games for Staten Island in 2019 pitching in 4 games total for Staten Island. ETA: 2023

45. Isiah Gilliam, OF
Age: 23
2019 Highest Level: AA Trenton
2019 Stats: 117 G, 458 PA, .234/.312/.412/.724, 17 HR, 51 RBI, 13 SB
A switch-hitter, Gilliam has some of the best raw power in Yankees system and does more damage from the right side. He’s strong and has plenty of bat speed, leverage and loft in his swing, but he will have to show he can make consistent contact in order to tap into his pop. Gilliam gets overly aggressive and it costs him. Gilliam has to produce at the plate because he doesn’t offer much value on the bases or in the field. He’s a below-average runner and corner outfielder, though he does have some arm strength. He may be best suited for first base or DH, which would put even more pressure on his bat. ETA: 2022

46. Jio Orozco, RHP
Age: 22
2019 Highest Level: A+ Tampa
2019 Stats: 18 G, 16 GS, 95.2 IP, 7-4, 80 K, 3.10 ERA, 1.23 WHIP
Fluid arm action with a very clean delivery. Mid 90s fastball his long reach gives it some sink action. His curveball has above average potential due to him throwing the curve from an over-the-top slot creating a 12-6 shape with depth. He has a good feel for the change up as well. This gives him a chance to have three above average pitches. Orozco would be much higher on other teams top 50 list. Since the Yankees are so stacked with pitching he had to be lower on my list. He has potential to be a back-end rotation arm. ETA: 2022

47. Hoy Jun Park, SS
Age: 23
2019 Highest Level: AA Trenton
2019 Stats: 113 G, 487 PA, .272/.363/.370/.733, 20 2B, 3 HR, 41 RBI, 20 SB
New York has been pushing him aggressively in the minors and that has done him no favors, as he has struggled. He squares up a lot of balls with a sound left-handed swing and has a patient approach. He has some sneaky power and could be a double-digit home run threat once he adds some strength to his skinny frame. Park has plus speed and possesses base stealing instincts. He has the tools to be a solid defender at either shortstop or second base, though he’s erratic and must improve his consistency. He has a strong arm but doesn’t always show it unless he has to, which leads him to display the makings of a good utility infielder. ETA: 2022


48. Harold Cortijo, RHP
Age: 21
2019 Highest Level: A Charleston
2019 Stats: 14 G, 14 GS, 73 IP, 5-4, 57 K, 3.45 ERA, 1.33 WHIP
The Yankees selected Cortijo in the 14th round of the 2017 draft (422nd overall). He has a great command of low 90s fastball and also owns a mid 80s slider that flashes quality bite. With his mid 80s changeup and a high 70s hook he could definitely be a mid-round steal for the Yankees. He has potential to be a mid-rotation pitcher or 7th-8th inning arm. ETA: 2022

49. Tanner Myatt, RHP
Age: 21
2019 Highest Level: A Charleston
2019 Stats: 19 G, 3 GS, 40.1 IP, 3-3, 40 K, 4.24 ERA, 1.64 WHIP
Myatt has a big time arm. Standing at 6’7” 220 pounds he is tall and intimidating on the mound. His fastball sits at 95 touching 99 and his curveball is between 81-83. He tends to get wild with his fastball at times, leading to a ton of walks (45 walks in 40.1 innings). If he can harness his control he could be a great set up man and move quickly up the ladder. ETA: 2022

50. Wilkerman Garcia, SS
Age: 21
2019 Highest Level: A+ Tampa
2019 Stats: 67 G, 267 PA, .275/.301/.371/.671, 4 HR, 32 RBI, 8 SB
Garcia signed for a $1.35-million signing bonus at age 16 in 2014. He’s playing extremely hard and works extremely hard. A good runner, Castillo has good instincts on the bases and good mechanics in the batter’s box. The result is a repeatable swing. He is more of a line-drive hitter that will not hit for much power. Defensively, he has range and is a good thrower and has outstanding hands. ETA: 2023

The best of the rest! The Yankees system is so deep it was hard to stop at 50.

Pablo Olivares, OF
Age: 21
2019 Highest Level: A+ Tampa
2019 Stats: 117 G, 464 PA, .250/.358/.306/.663, 15 2B, 1 HR, 31 RBI, 20 SB
Olivares is a line drive hitter with good gap power. He tends to try and pull the ball for power at times. His bat could come around for more power as he adds strength to his 6’0” 160 lb. frame. He has good speed, but on defense he needs to refine his routes some but has plenty of speed to stay in center and an arm to play any spot in the outfield. Olivares does enough to look like he has potential to be a 4th outfielder. ETA: 2023

Mandy Alvarez, 3B
Age: 25
2019 Highest Level: AAA Scranton/Wilkes-Barre
2019 Stats: 124 G, 490 PA, .270/.324/.417/.742, 31 2B, 11 HR, 76 RBI, 4 SB
Alvarez is a very solid hitter with average power and solid defense. He will be a great back up in case of a string of injuries in New York in 2020. ETA: 2020

Freicer Perez, RHP
Age: 23
2019 Highest Level: A+ Tampa
2018 Stats: 6 G, 6 GS, 25.0 IP, 0-4, 20 K, 7.20 ERA, 1.88 WHIP
Perez has added at least 40 pounds to his 6-foot-8 frame since signing. He owns a 93-97 mph fastball with a peak of 99 in 2018. His long arms create unusual angle and plane to his pitches, making it harder for hitters to contend with his heater. Perez also has a curveball and changeup that show flashes of becoming plus pitches, and he has added a hard slider that also has promise. He will have to get and stay healthy after being shut down in 2018 with inflammation in his shoulder after only 6 starts in Tampa and not pitching at all in 2019. Some scouts have compared him to former Yankee Dellin Betances. So there’s still reason to be excited! He could shot up my rankings once he shows he is healthy. ETA: 2022

Diego Castillo, 2B/SS
Age: 22
2019 Highest Level: A+ Tampa
2019 Stats: 114 G, 456 PA, .248/.310/.329/.639, 18 2B, 4 HR, 33 RBI, 13 SB
2018 FSL All-Star game MVP. 2019 was a bit of a struggle well repeating in Tampa. Solid bat sprays line drives. Decent speed. Makings of a utility infielder. ETA: 2023

Nick Green, RHP
Age: 24
2019 Highest Level: AA Trenton
2019 Stats: 18 G, 16 GS, 82.1 IP, 3-6, 63 K, 6.67 ERA, 1.70 WHIP
Green was acquired by the New York Yankees from the Texas Rangers on Monday as part of the Carlos Beltran deal in 2016. He was actually selected by the Diamondbacks in the 2018 Rule 5 draft and returned to the Yankees. He owns a cut fastball that averages between 93-85 mph. Very aggressive pitcher that tends to get wild at times. ETA: 2022

Mauro Bonifacio, OF
Age: 17
2019 Highest Level: DSL
2019 Stats: 42 G, 182 PA, .196/.319/.359/.678, 9 2B, 4 HR, 19 RBI, 3 SB
Bonifacio, just 18 years old, is a 6-7, 226-pounder who has shown power and speed along with a strong arm that could allow him to play right field. He bats and throws from the right side. His swing tends to get long at times causing him to strike out a few to many times. But when he gets a ball it flies off of his bat with power and authority. ETA: Late 2024

Denny Larrondo, RHP
Age: 17
2019 Highest Level: Rookie (Gulf Coast League)
2019 Stats: 11 G, 8 GS, 32.1 IP, 2-5, 24 K, 5.01 ERA, 1.21 WHIP
Larrondo has projectable body and a quick arm (6’2” 180 lbs.). The right-hander has touched 94 mph with his fastball and usually sits in the 91-to-92 mph range. He has a tight spin on his emerging curveball, his second-best pitch. The teenager is an aggressive strike-thrower with a working changeup that is expected to improve. ETA: 2023

Agustin Ramirez, C
Age 18
2019 Highest Level: DSL
2019 Stats: 41 G, 163 PA, .239/.300/.374/.674, 10 2B, 4 HR, 26 RBI, 1 SB
Ramirez packs a lot of strength into his compact swing, driving the ball to the fence in BP. These balls to the fence will go over once he puts some strength on his frame. Ramirez squared up fastballs consistently, though he does have some trouble on breaking pitches. His bat stood out more than his defense, where Ramirez has work to do to improve his receiving and throws to second. ETA: Late 2024

Carlos Verdecia, 2B/SS
Age: 17
2019 Highest Level: DSL
2019 Stats: 28 G, 123 PA, .280/.415/.450/.865, 9 2B, 0 HR, 15 RBI, 12 SB
Only 17, Verdecia came to the organization with a reputation for being able to get the bat on the ball, after only striking out once in 115 plate appearances during the 2018 season in the 15U Cuban National League. Verdecia lived up to this reputation, recording more walks than strikeouts and registering. In his first season in pro ball with the DSL Yankees he drew 22 walks compared to 19 Ks. More of a spray hitter to all fields then a power hitter. He may put some weight on his 5’11” 170-pound frame and add some pop. He has decent speed on the base paths. ETA: 2025

Ken Waldichuk, LHP
Age: 22
2019 Highest Level: Rookie Pulaski
2019 Stats: 11 G, 10 GS, 29.1 IP, 0-2, 49 K, 3.68 ERA, 0.89 WHIP
Waldichuck has a great frame at 6’4” 220 pounds. He throws a low 90s fast ball that sometimes reaches 95. He is an above average slider and has a decent change up as well. ETA: 2023

Oswaldo Cabrera, 2B/3B/SS
Age: 20
2019 Highest Level: A+ Tampa
2019 Stats: 120 G, 493 PA, .260/.310/.378/.687, 8 HR, 56 RBI, 10 SB
Line-drive hitter. Doesn’t strike out a lot. He doesn’t have a whole lot of power and is an average runner. Cabrera is an excellent defender. ETA: 2024

Plus a few International signings to follow from 2019

Enger Castellano, 3B
Age: 16
2019 Highest Level: N/A
With all the hype Jasson Dominguez got when the Yankees signed him it seems like Castellano was forgotten about. Enger signed for $377,500 out of the DR. They compared Castellano to Andujar. If you know me you know I love Miguel Andujar! ETA: 2025

Ernesto Borges, RHP
Age: 18
2019 Highest Level: N/A
Right-hander signed out of Mexico in 2019, throws 85 mph. ETA: 2025

Lester Beltran, LHP
Age: 18
2019 Highest Level: N/A
Has 90-miles per hour fastball as well as a curveball, a changeup, and a sinker. ETA: 2025

Paul Woodin is a huge sports fan who leads the New York Yankees minor league farm system coverage for the Prospects1500 team. Growing up playing and watching baseball while collecting baseball cards, Paul developed a love for the game. Born and raised in Connecticut between Yankees and Red Sox territory, Paul become a Yankees fan because of Don Mattingly and Derek Jeter. An avid sports card, memorabilia and autograph collector, he participates in redraft, dynasty and prospect-only fantasy baseball formats during each season. Feel free to reach out on Twitter
@PaulWoodin1.




8 Comments

  1. I agree Ezuquiel Duran and Oswaldo Peraza should not be as high as they are on many lists. BA ranked Duran #8; Baseball Prospectus ranked Peraza #5!!
    1500 has them #36 and #31, quite a difference. 1500 is more in line w last mlb.com ’19 list (new ’20 in Feb).

    I would have Roansey Contreras, A. Viscaino higher. Having O. Rodriguez ranked higher than them was interesting, high praise for O.R.
    High A Tampa Tarpons are going to have a heck of an interesting starting five/six.

    I would give higher weight to some guys that look ready soon, with real stats to back up: M. King; C. Gittens
    Not saying ceilings are as high, but established floor gets them a bit higher on my list than here.

    Likewise, also a boost because of performance, I like Canaan Smith higher than you. If you can rank M. Escotto on shear ’19 stats in DSL, surely C. Smith’s numbers against real competition needs credence.

    I am high on Schmidt as is 1500 and BA.

    Overall, agree with most ranks here and find 1500 does as good a job as any in getting it right, in both highlighting a player others overlook OR not buying the hype others have created.

    • ROANSY CONTRERAS:

      Contreras was ranked 6th overall by Paul Woodin as late Aug 27 in the mid season rankings with only September left to play. He was then ranked the 3rd best pitcher behind Deivi G. and Luis Gil.

      He is now ranked 17th, dropping out if Tier 2, with seven pitchers ranked ahead of him now as the 8th best (all young RHP).

      Does this have mostly more to do with so many rising in the “ranks” and less to do with Roansy? Or was there something not noticed in late August by Paul Woodin when revising Paul Martin’s list from a year ago, Jan 2019, that Mr. Woodin has since become aware about?

      Sorry to be commenting with “Reply” to my own post. But on commenting on my own previous marks, Canaan Smith is ranked fairly high here, at #15, so no problem with the number he is ranked. Just that I would have him, Contrares and Vizcaino ranked higher than others here ranked above them.

      It is always interesting to be surprised with how others compile the order, and which players they are more excited about compared to the other lists out there. It always gives insight and educates one on some players others may have overlooked, like Escotto as a good example.

      Thanks for going beyond fifty players and adding some very young DSL players at the end that I am unfamiliar with, beyond name when signed.

      Yankees have another group if players they need to protect next Dec, and that is far off, but it is becoming clear they they can not keep all the players they need to protect from the next R5 draft and the ones recently added to the 40 man. Especially if most are not ready to contribute to the MLB 26 man active in some form in 2021. This is something that I would like to write more about in the future. I would love to hold on to all of these players, all the young RHP, but I do not see how it will be possible. Yankees will have to trade some before December, either packaged for MLB stud, or individually for 2 or 3 lesser ranked prospects that do not need to be R5 protected for some time.

      Go Yanks!

  2. Hey Michael thank you. Like my article says I’m very bullish on Rodriguez. I know I have him a little higher then other places. He’s so young and has so much time to develop so time will tell. He reminds me a little of Orlando Hernández the way he pitches. King and Gittens are ready or very very near ready but I don’t think they have the ceiling others in the system do. Gittens wasn’t even taken in the Rule 5 draft this year so makes me think what I said bout Gittens maybe right. I hope I’m wrong. I like him as a solid player. Vizcaino has some command issues I hope he gets fixed. The Yankees have a bundle of pitching that’s bout the same with vizcaino, Contreras etc. Smith has a bright future for sure as well. But he has so many OF ahead of him in the system with higher ceilings. As my article says I can see the Yankees trading some of these SP and OF for pieces they need for the big league club and Smith maybe one of those guys that get traded. Escotto is another guy I’m a little bullish on. I just love the way the ball jumps off his bat. Thanks again for checking out Prospects1500!!!

  3. Absolutely less to do with Roansy. I think he has number 3 upside for sure. The guys I ranked above him I believe have higher upside in the future. Most of these pitchers have about the same upside in that cluster.

  4. I had read your (Paul Woodin) article “Yankees By the Number In 2019” a while back and came across it today by clicking on your name to find the Woodin index page.

    Here’s series of numbers:
    16, 23, 20, 22, 21
    17, 20, 18, 21, 20
    17, 18, 17, 19, 20
    18, 20, 20, 18, 22

    • The above series of numbers are the ages of the top 20 players on the 1500 Yankees Top 50 list, ages according to the list.

4 Trackbacks / Pingbacks

  1. Cuatro cubanos entre mejores prospectos de Yankees de Nueva York
  2. Cuatro cubanos entre mejores prospectos de Yankees de Nueva York – El Rincón de Yumurí
  3. Yankees 21 To Watch Past the Top 50 | Prospects1500
  4. Playing the Market: Dynasty Leagues Buy Low/Sell High | Prospects1500

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*