Yankee Draft `13: Ringers

Ringers are guys who can flat out play.  In drafts, Ringers are guys that for one reason or another an organization has special information or insight about, that allows them to pick them later than they might or get them at a specialized price.   They might know something was corrected, or that velocity has gone up.  A few years ago, Brett Marshall topped out at 97 on his fastball and about 90 on his slider at a Yankees workout.   The Yanks got him in the 6th.  Since then, I believe he was mis-developed and has lost plus velo and plus slider, but that was a guy with now stuff that they were willing to pull the trigger on because of that workout.  Tyler Austin was another kid they got well later than his talent would indicate, but the Yankee scouts got close to him and they pulled the trigger in the 8th.

Now, this isn't to say that every signability kid is a Ringer,  they're not.   Nor does every kid they think they have a special understanding of and price for pan out.   They really liked Cito Culver, and though the clock hasn't quite run out on him, he has not become the heir apparent to Jeter after coming in at a bargain price a few years ago.   During the draft, you'll see all sorts of signability picks, but look for the ones that have a longer relationship with a scout or have been to the Tampa complex or even Yankee Stadium recently for your Ringers.   I'll try to point them out.  Expect  a Yankee Scout Matt Hyde Special or two.