Knicks After Nemanja Bjelica?

Another Knick target appears to be Serbian star Nemanja Bjelica.   On tape, this cat is and all around player who can shoot, pass, dribble, rebound and play D.   In other words, go get him Knicks!   Currently, Bjelica's rights are controlled by the cap-strapped Timberwolves, so Phil should be able to work out something.   Here' hoping it's in the 6-7M range.  That would allow the Knicks to play him at forward opposite Melo, and spend 20-21M or more if it can be gathered on just their C and 2.

Knicks Stuff

The Knicks are currently rumored to be after everybody.  There's even word that Carmelo is making recruiting calls, and the Knicks are readying a pitch to Clipper C DeAndre Jordan, while also being linked to Greg Monroe, Arron Aflallo and David West -- who is old and not what he was.

The Knicks supposedly have 27M in cap space without making any other moves, though they could basically trade anyone else on the roster, plus their trade exceptions if they wanted to do a sign and trade for a Tobias Harris or someone else.

The Knicks need plenty, including a rim protector, another F and a 2.  I'd hope to see them try to get DeAndre, and a 2, while also making a run at Tobias Harris.  If that doesn't work, they should probably get a cheap rim protector like Biyombo, plus Greg Monroe, plus a 2.   We'll see what they do.  They have a chance to take a big step in the right direction this summer after running a strong draft week -- they just have to avoid maing anymore albatros deals.  And they shouldn't let the trade exceptions expire without using them.

Rangers Fail to Qualify Conor Allen

The Rangers qualified all but one of their AHL guys today, and the one they left out was Conor Allen.  Seems kind of strange on the face of it, though he is already 25 going on 26.   I wonder how far down the organizational depth chart they now consider him with McIrath coming on and Skjei and Graves on the way.   In any event, he was pretty solid when he played for the Rangers, and I wish him well.  This opens up another contract space, btw.   The Rangers were down to 1 by the end of the season.

Rangers D-Camp Opens

The Rangers have opened their annual development camp.  Today and tomorrow the players will take phyiscals and get run through some conditioning tests.  Starting Wednesday, they'll skate.  These camps have been eventful over the years, with the worst news coming when McIlrath wrecked his knee cap a few years ago, but better news coming from the tryout players who have gotten deals of their good showings.

Because the Rangers haven't had a one in years, and they whiffed on O'Connor and Reilly, over the past several weeks, they will have to hunker down and get more creative about finding talent that doesn't cost picks - you know like MZA, Girardi, Talbot, and Hayes.  This camp is a nice opportunity to do that.

It also gives the Rangers a chance to re-scout their own and see where they are in physical development -- are they getting stronger and faster?  They then send them off with specific programs to work on till camp starts.

Some of the prospects who've been in the AHL for over a season like Hrivik, McIlrath and Lindberg no longer get invited.

Ranger Marginalia

Among the problems with the Rangers lately has been their propensity to load up on low salaried UFA's on the first day of free agency.   While the Rangers see these guys as bandaids - except for Tanner Fricking Glass, who inexplicably got a three year deal last year - what they really do is block competition from the farm and, under this particular coach, create awful veteran favoritism.

The Rangers have very good scouts, and they have drafted and acquired the young core of this team - Stepan, McDonagh, Kreider, Miller, Hayes, Fast, etc.   But on the first day of every free agent period lately, those scouts get repudiated.  And that's a shame because they have never gotten anything but a piece that had to be replaced among those low end (except for Fricking Glass) signings they reflexively make.

This tendancy seems to have bitten them in the ass this summer when Buchenevich commited to one more year in Russia because he didn't think he'd make the team - and the Rangers could really use him as he is one of if not their best top 6 prospects.

Hopefully, the Rangers have taken a long look at their marginal roster filling moves -- particurlarly in light of their current Coach's big flaw -- and will look for answers from the system through the prospect camp, Travis City, and regular camp, and get a handle on the prospects' ability to help now and likely timetables, and then make moves for the veteran marginalia only if they can't find answers among the cheap kids their very good scouts have assembled.

Kids get better, marginal veterans do not.

Rangers Draft Review, Pt.2

Seeing some articles that say the Rangers are worse now than they were when the season ended.  I'd like to welcome those writers to the salary cap era.  And I'd also like to explain that the hockey draft, like the baseball draft is about the mid to longterm future, unlike the football and basketball drafts that are primarily about next year.

Thus, though the Rangers have roster issues right now, so do the rest of the teams who have a tight cap and RFA's and UFA's -- and the draft isn't where they get fixed.   They get fixed starting this week and all the way to the trade deadline.

So those articles were at least premature, and they already replaced the two roster players they traded.

The draft itself was a little different than usual.  Over the Gordie Clark era, the Rangers strongly comitted to drafting North American skaters.  That has been changing slightly and more Euros have ended up in the last couple of one-less drafts.   Of their 7 picks yesterday, fully five were Euros and only two, Gropp and Miller were North American.  No Americans were picked.

I don't think that's the product of a conscious decision, but trying to find value where the Rangers have been picking probably caused them to broaden their scouting efforts.

And while, the countries of origin are different for these kids, they all fit the Ranger model of fast skaters with hands. It seems the WHL guys will be only guys playing in juniors next year, unless the goalie returns to Green Bay, and we'll have to figure how to follow the rest of them as they develop.  They do seem to have what the Rangers like to draft.

Yanks: Isiah Gilliam has Signed

According to his Twitter feed, Isiah Gilliam is a professional baseball player for the New York Yankees.   As you'll recall in my draft review, I thought the signing of this switch hitting teenage power hitter would be a big determinant about the immediate success of the draft and the planning behind it.   So well done, Yankees!   The Yanks had a need for 18 and 19 year old impact bats and so far, they've locked up three of them in Wagner, Sands and Gilliam -- and Terrance Robertson could also add more pop as he matures.  So this is a really exciting signing for the Yanks, who have a tradition of great switch hitters from Mantle, to White, to Bernie to Posada, let's hope it's a case of here we go again, cause this kid has power from both sides.

This Week on the Blog

Well, today we wrapped up all of our annual drafts until next April or May or whenever the NFL decides to have their's. So what's cooking for this week?

Yanks - the Bombers may or may not introduce a few low budget IFA's on 7/2.  Or it may just roll them out at around Instructs in the fall.  They are currently serving the first year of a two year sentence for last year's IFA Extravaganza.  They can't spend over 300K on anyone  --  so they really have to continue locking down the signability guys in this year's draft and next. Of course, they have gotten some good IFA's for under 300K - like Mateo - so they might not be totally screwed for these 24 months.

Meantime, they will hope Matsui can bounce back and that Nova, Pineda, Eovaldi and Warren can provide good pitching -- because CC just can't right now.  Also, getting Jacoby Ellsbury back at the end of the week should help them score more runs and maybe save the pen from their maniacle manager.

Giants -  The Giants will continue to chill and are unlikely to select anyone in the Supplemental draft that's coming up.  It's been about 21 years since George Young used to use that tool.  Eli's agent is starting to make noise, so maybe something will get done there or with one of the others over the break.

Rangers - the Rangers may or may not make another trade or two heading into Free Agency.  It's not a really good market, extending the young core, starting with Stepan, Kreider and Miller should be job one.   They will also, presumably, run their annual prospect camp.  That's always an eye opener.

Knicks - The Knicks will also enter free agency.  They do so still needing more NOW size and defense as well as a shooting guard who can also play D.  They have a bunch of cap room now and next year to get things done.  We'll see if they can continue the impressive job they suddenly started doing Thursday night.

So things could be crazy or quiet with all the moves being made -- or not made this week.   But I wish all of you a great week filled with delightful surprises.

Rangers Trade Haggerty for Raanta

The Rangers didn't take long in replacing their back up goalie.   They just traded Ryan Haggerty - one of the good college players they signed last year - for Antti Raanta a backup with the Blackhawks.   This is sort of back to the smart model we've seen from the Rangers.  Haggerty is a power forward prospect who I think will make it.  But he was also a collegiate free agent - thus a basically free asset, like Cam Talbot was, that has now been turned into a new back up goalie and 4 new prospects (they turned the first Edmonton pick into two when they traded with Washington).  So, nice way to wrap up the goalie situation, Rangers.

Rangers Draft Review, Pt. 1

After failing to jump into the first round last night, the Rangers made a flurry of moves this morning which netted them Emerson Etem, and allowed them to make a total of 7 picks in the final 6 rounds of the draft.

Unfortunately, the moves also saw them lose Carl Hagelin and Cam Talbot, two of better stories of their scouts and development program over the last several years.   After it was reported yesterday that the Rangers had been offered a one for Talbot, speculation ran wild.  Unfortunately we can only speculate over whether or not they sold low or somehow blew a better deal.  As of now they are down  at least one NHL level player.

They did get Emerson Etem, though, and he was a guy who I really liked back in 2010.  He's only flashed in the pro's so far, but the Rangers have done well with the young guys they didn't draft but kept following like McD, Lindberg and Hayes, so maybe they can locate the on switch for Emerson.

With their picks, the Rangers grabbed 5 forwards, 1 defenseman and a goalie.  None of them will be ready for the NHL any time soon, which is what you get when you trade away all your ones and some of your twos.

The forwards all seem to have speed and skill, if not quite NHL strength and size yet, but they'll have time to fill out.

The Dman, Zborovskiy, will probably be their most controversial pick in the short term because a few of the draft pundits had him as undraftable, and others had him going much later than the 79th pick we used to get him.  We'll have to see if the Ranger scouts have once again outsmarted the pundits.

Brooks is currently reporting that the Rangers are close on another trade for a new back-up goalie.   Hopefully the deal will also create more cap relief.

Rangers Grab a Goalie

The Rangers just grabbed Adam Huska, an intriguing goalie from the USHL.  Adam was born in Slovakia and seems to still represent them in international competition.  On the other hand, he's doing his developing on the USHL's Green Bay franchise.   So, interesting.  He just turned 18 and it will be interesting to see if he plays junior, college or something else next season.   The Rangers say they will not draft a goalie unless he has #1 potential.   So, they've added another one to an already impressive stable of goalies in the system.

Rangers Take a Big Swede

Daniel Bernhardt is already 19 and 6'3" 193.   So that's impressive, but what isn't as far as I've seen are his stats. I'm sure there are some numbers somewhere, but I'll wait till the Rangers explain him.  I haven't had coffee yet.

Was directed to some numbers, and this cat has been an over a point a game guy over there, and two years ago, he was a 2 point a game guy.   Ringer?

Rangers Grab a Speedster

Rangers went back to their old model, grabbing Brad Morrison from Prince George in the OHL.  This is another guy who needs to add some size and strength as he's currently listed as 154.  But the word is that he is fast and has breakaway speed.  We just sent a bunch of speed to Anaheim, so hopefully, we can develop Morrison.

Rangers Take a Finnish Fireplug

The Rangers just took their third European skater in a row but tabbing C Aleksi Saarela with their third pick in the 3rd round.   He's 5'11" but 194, so he's either out of shape or a solid fireplug type.   He's only played in Finland, where he did well in juniors but not as well against the men of the Finnish Elite league.  We'll see what the plan is.  Anyway, the Rangers have uncharacteristically eschewed the North American today.

Rangers Take D Sergey Zborovskiy

With their second 3rd, the Rangers grabbed Russian - WHL defenseman Sergey Zborovskiy.   Sergey played for Regina, and is already 6'3" 198.  He's a left shot.   He had 19 points in 70 games for Regina.  We'll see what kind of skater he is.

Rangers Take Robin Kovacs

The Rangers were down 1 Swede for all of 30 minutes.  After trading back from pick 57 in the 2nd to pick 62 in the 3rd, while picking up an extra 4th, the Rangers nabbed Sweden-2 winger Robin Kovacs.  Robin is another plus skater who need to add strength because he already plays with snarl, he just needs time to get stronger, and obviously this will be a multi-year process.

BTW, because of the trades the Rangers have 3 thirs again - just like two years ago when they really cleaned up.  Let's see if they can do it again.

Rangers Trade Cam Talbot to the Oilers

The Rangers just traded Cam Talbot to Edmonton for picks 57, 79 and 184.  It's hard to believe that this was the best deal they could get for Talbot, but the Rangers should be able to get a nice infusion of talent from those picks.  The Rangers also sent pic 209 to the Oilers.

Rangers Trade Hagelin

The Rangers just traded Carl Hagelin and the 59th pick to Anaheim for Emeron Etem and the 41 pick.  They used the #41 pick to grab lefty wing Ryan Gropp from the WHL's Seattle team.

Long time readers will remember that Emerson Etem was a guy I really liked back in his draft year.  Ryan Gropp was not a point a game guy but was close.  He'll be 19 this year, so we'll have to see where he ends up playing next fall.

Yanks Win

Chris Young hit a late 3-run shot to take a 3-2 lead against the Astros, and Dellin Betances made it stand up over a four out save.   Let's hope his arm doesn't fall off.   They've neither saved Dellin nor currently injured Andrew Miller for the highest level situations like we talked about all offseason. But it was a big win that they rescued from the jaws of defeat -- pretty tedius come of game thus far in Houston.

Rangers Draft, Pt. 1

Okay, haven't talked too much about the Rangers since they lost game 7.   That was massively disappointing -- though understandable given the plethora of injuries they sustained leading up to game 7.  Nevertheless, they have fallen short in 3 of the last 4 years and they have to take a hard look at things.

Today, the Rangers are probably going to trade Cam Talbot. Once round 1 starts later today, the Rangers will lose leverage every time a pick comes off the board, so, the sooner the better and really, get a first.   The Rangers whiffed on Reilly, who would have been this year's substitute first, just as Kevin Hayes was last season.  It would also be nice if the Rangers could move some salary in an expanded deal.   We'll see what happens there - if it gets done today, it will be great news.  If they can't complete today, they'll be stuck taking 2's.

In general, I am a big fan of the Rangers scouts, and that's why seeing them giving away ones for Nash, St.Louis and Yandle,  while not getting one back for Gaborik has seemed careless.   The Ranger strength has been their scouting staff, and giving them less quality chances to help has surely hurt.

We'll talk more over the weekend, but as of right now, the Rangers job is to get in Round 1 of this draft.

Knicks Draft Review

The Knicks got a lot more interesting tonight.  Above is a picture of Thanasis, who they got last year and who's rights they still control.   In taking Porzingis, the Knicks swung for the fences.  Generally, I only root for that for the Yanks when their good, or the Rangers and Giants when I believe they have a scouting advantage.  I don't know if the Knicks have a scouting advantage, but they swung for the fences.

The next move was a great one, trading Tim Hardaway Jr. in the threeway for Jerian Grant.  Tim was athletic but wouldn't play D or take it to the rack as much as his AA would have allowed him to,  Jerian plays D and makes plays and big shots on O.  He's a PG and can play off the ball, too and is a good, solid 6'5" 209.  He could be a crucial piece.

The Knicks later jumped back in again and took Kris Porzingis' teammate in Willy Hernangomez, and 6'11 load at 255 -- and apparently they inted to stash him.  Though that was the thougnt about Thanasis last year and he ended up on their development team.

So now they have 3 more intriguing players to go along with Cleanthoy, Thanasis and Langston.  We'll see what it can turn into, but they grew their potential tonight, how much pretty much depends on Kristaps.

Knicks Trade for Hernangomez

The Knicks just traded for 6'11" 255 Guillermo Hernangomez.   Apparently, they intend to stash him in Europe, but this is another nice move, now it's seeming possible, that they really do know what they are doing.

Knicks Trade for Jerian Grant!

The Knicks have traded Tim Hardaway Jr to the Hawks in a threeway trade through Washington for Jerian Grant of Notre Dame.  I like this player and he's been one I was hoping they'd somehow get back into the draft to take.  Apparently, they got him.  He's already 23 which is a bit old for a rookie these days, but he's strong and can get to the rim as well as dish.  Nice move.

Knicks Take Porzingis

The Knicks just took Kristaps Porzingis.  I was not a fan of this player as a prospect for the Knicks because though he's 7'2", he weighs about 230 and doesn't really rebound.   He is a potentially great shooter, but he's weak and cannot play in the post yet.  What's more, what good have the Knicks ever gotten from Europe?  Gallo still hasn't made an all star team, and don't even get into Weis or Lampe...   They better get more picks.

Biggest Day Since the `94 Finals For the Knicks

God willing, you guys will be awake before I am Thurday morning, so I'm posting this before I go to sleep. Today marks the Knicks biggest chance to do something great since June of `94.   Seriously, by making the right pick and other moves, they can let us know they are finally serious about being good again.  If they screw around and make a mess of things -  see the Isiah era, see Walsh trying to lock up LeBron - we'll know we're in for another long period of crap.

As I've said before, the Knicks should keep the #4 pick and take whichever guard is still there.  I wouldn't mind them trading up a spot of Russell falls to three and they believe he's their man - but I'd also love it if they stay at 4 and take Mudiay.

Btw, I'd probably want to play either one at the 2.  Yes, they can both play the point, but 2 guards have been the brand standard for the Triangle - see Jordan, see Kobe.   And in general, I want every guy on the team to have a point guard feel for the game.  LeBron and other great non-PG's have had that kind of awareness and made plays from their respective positions.  And so did Jordan and Kobe when they played for Phil.    

Then I want the Knicks to bundle their trade exceptions with THjr. and any othe assets they have and get more picks.  And I want them to use those picks on "knows how to play" kids instead of freaks and projects.

I'm not crazy about Porzingis or any of the other long guys who might be able to defend at 4, and I'm against a trade down -- which would be the only way I'd be comforable taking one of the non Towns, non Okafor bigs.

That's where I stand.  Keep the pick and draft whichever guard is there or move up one and get Russell.  They have to get a potentially great player in this draft and the farther they drop the less potential for greatness will exist.

The rumor volume should be deafening as it pays for leagues that allows teams to trade picks to encourage wild trade speculation leading up to their broadcasts.

Let's go, Knicks!

Nova Sparkles in Return

Ivan Nova returned to action today after 14 months of for TJS and rehab.  He pitched 6.2 innings of shutout ball allowing just 5 baserunners.  He didn't have his good curve, but he got an unusual number of MF8's  of his sinker and change.  Troublingly, afer he left, the Yanks used Brian Mitchell in short relief.   Ugh.  He pitched a 1-2-3 and Diego finished the game, yielding some runs in the 9th.

The Yanks; however, did score 10 runs without hitting a homer.  Thank goodness I was watching and not listening to our radio team go on about small ball.

Yanks finish the homestand 5-3, showing both the highs and lows of their roster, luck and strategy.  But they may have added back another good starter today, and that beats trading assets.

Knicks Stuff

Alright, tomorrow is the biggest day in recent Knicks history.  They have the #4 pick, three trade exceptions, and a bunch of cap room.   What if they finally do it right?

Let's hope.  Meanwhile, Kevin Love just opted out of his deal and is a free agent.

Yanks GCL Preview

Alright, after some consideration, I've decided to talk about both teams at once.

First of all, but for some rainouts, the Yanks would have had 10 MiLB teams playing on a single day for the first time since Ford Frick was Commish or something like that.  The way it currently shakes out is 6 teams in short seasons, and 4 teams playing full seasons.   That's a lot of players, and should represent a lot of capability, but we'll have to see how that works out.

GCL 1

Because of injuries or seeming injuries to guys like Dermis Garcia and Austin DeCarr, the short season teams are lacking some sizzle.   GCL 1 is no different.  Let's take a look.

Right now they're listing 17 pitchers.  But are 2 rehabs, Andrew Bailey and Vincente Campos and  3 are on the DL, hard throwing Deshorn Lake is on the 60 Day DL and LHP Anthony Marzi and RHP Anyelo Gomez are on the 7 Day DL.

That leaves them with 12 other pitchers that are a mix between just drafteds like RHP Hobie Harris, RHP Icezack Flemming,  RHP Dustin Cook, and RHP Chad Martin.   They also have recently signed UDFA Geoff DeGroot.  From last year's draft they have LHP Andrew Chin.   They also have some IFA's like LHP Anderson Severino,  RHP Alexander Vargas (just 18 and throws hard),  RHP Jean Ramirez, RHP Francis Joseph,  RHP Juan Escorcia ,  and RHP Abel Duarte.

We'll have to see if anyone emerges, but there is no Phil Hughes here based on what's happened so far.  Vargas might be a guy.

They have 3 young catchers including Luis Sanchez who just turned 18 and two 20 year olds, Alvaro Noriega, and Jerry Seitz.

The infield is where it starts to get really interesting.  Wilkerman Garcia is the shortstop, and he was one of the 15 first rounders or whatever you want to consider them, we got last July 2.  He's still just 17 years old and looks like a ringer.  Not a power hitter thus far, but  some pop and power could come.

Also at SS is Bryan Cuevas who had a good year in the GCL last year, but has been left behind because of all of the other picks and signings.  This is sort of the downside of having players coming in at different age points.  They all have to start somewhere and they can create traffic for guys like Cuevas who shouldn't be in the GCL anymore.

Donny Sands is at 3rd, he was the surprise prep who we took in round 8, and couldn't wait to sign.  They love his ceiling.

They also have Victor Rey, a  20 year old.

At 2B they have 20 Year old Daniel Barrios.   They also have anothr SS named Danienger Perez who is just 19 and could see some action around the infield.

Chris Gittens is the 1B, he was a JuCo or a DES or something last year, and needs to start pounding. He's 21.


GCL has just 4 OF's listed and they are all CF's!   They are Leonard Molina, the big IFA from 2 years ago,  Trey Amburgey, the toolsy JuCo the Yanks just drafted,  Jordan Barnes, a toolsy lottery ticket they bought late a few years ago and  Cesar Diaz, a 22 year old.

So, that's team one, and we'll really have to see who, if anyone, emerges.

GCL 2

Notably, the pitching coach for GCL 2 is Nardi Contreras.   Nardi has always been dynamite when he can get his hands on a pitcher.  When he was pitching Czar, guys like Betances would always pitch beautifully after a consult.   Anyway, they've given him at least one problem child to spend the summer with...

Cuban LHP Omar Luis is that guy. The Yanks gave him 3M or something a few years ago, and he's still in the GCL.    GCL 2 lists 16 other pitchers with only Dietrich Enns (post TJS) listes as a rehab and Lee Cassas (huge guy) on the 7 Day DL.

RHP Brandon Stenhouse is a 19 year old Australian, and LHP Artur Strzalka is a 20 year old Pole!   Let's see what these guys can do.

RHP Claudio Custodio used to be a position player, and mad could he jet.  He just couldn't hit consistently.  So they're trying him on the mound.  TJS in 4-3-2---

The rest are all righties and will have to emerge,  Gean Batista (24!), Rolando Calvo, Leonardo Garcia, Cody Hamlin, Juan Jimenez,  Cory Jordan (24!), Kelvin Magallenes, Jose Mesa (son of but 22 already),  Jordan Ovalles, Andrew Schwaab, and Daris Vargas.

Good luck, Nardi!

GCL 2 is carrying 4 catchers ( they may have to use 2 when Omar Luis pitches).   Eduardo Navas and Brian are 19 and 20 respectively and thus have some upside.  Ronaldo Suarez is just 17!  He was not on of the big first round types they signed last year, but it was a mammoth class and it says something that he's already over.   Ozzie Liranzo is the 23 year old babysitter for the rest.

The infield is comprised of 3 list shortstops and 2 listed 3B's.    They have to figure it out.  But one shorstop is Yancarlos Baez, who feels like he's been around forever but is still just 19 till August and seemsed to have turned a corner over the last year and a half.

SS Griffin Garrabito is another kid from last year's class and won't be 18 till August.  He wasn't one of the first round types, but he's gotten some buzz and apparently risen up during instructs and EST.

Jose Infante is the other SS and he's be 22 in September.

The 3B's are Kevin Cornelius and Renzo Martini.   Cornelius is the Jordan Barnes of IF's.  A workout warrior who needs to start moving.  And Renzo Martini is was low signing IFA from a few years ago and has hit his way off th all name only squad.  Interesting group.  We'll see who becomes a 2B.

Like GCL 1, 2 only has 4 OF's with 2 listed as LF's, 1 listed as a CF and one listed as simply OF.  They are 19 year old Andy Diaz,  21 year old Greidy Encarcnacion,  22 year old Domic Jose (toolsy son of Felix) and just turned 20 Pedro Urena,

Once again, some interesting names and the reclamation project in Luis, but we'll have to see who emerges.

And we'll also have to see where guys like Dermis Garcia and Austin DeCarr end up when they can go.

Yanks All New Pulaski Team

So, the all new Pulaski Yanks start playing Appy League games tomorrow and the Yanks have been curteous enough to release a roster for us to look at before the games begin.

The roster to start the season is comprised mostly of picks from the three most recent drafts.  It's a rookie league, but since the other two rookie league teams play out of the Yankee Complex in Tampa, it's interesting to see whom they're sending farther away.

Let's look at the pitchers:

RHP Drew Finley and RHP Simon De La Rosa are probably the big ticket starters, unless one of the college arms like RHP'S Brody Koerner, Garrett Mundell or David Sosebee surprises.  Though, they also might be relievers, and we might see piggy-backing anyway.  Other pitchers include LHP Nestor Cortes - who is the only LEFTY on the team to start the season - and righties, Corey Holmes, Adonis Rosa, Alex Robinett (the kid from Army), Melvin Moria, Jhon Morban, Jonathan Padilla, William Gabay, and Eduardo Rivera. It will be interesting to see how they get these pitchers organized.

The infield consists of Gosuke Katoh at 2B.  Gosuke has really struggled at the plate for most of the last season and a half, and hopefully, a change of scenery will get him going.  He's a guy that knows the strikezone and walks but hasn't hit like he did in the GCL back in his draft year, but for a six week period in the second half of last year.  It's definitely all in his head, and he needs a fresh start.

The SS will be 19 year old Korean sensation Hoy Jun Park.  He was the big 18 year old among the scores of 16 year olds the Yanks signed last 7/2.  It will be interesting to see how he does, and it's interesting that they're letting him play away from Tampa.

Jose Javier is the other SS, but we'll see how much he plays.  Billy Fleming is the other 2B on the team, and he could take AB's away from Katoh, he was a bit of an over age signing who'd been injured a lot during development but who played well last year.

Kane Sweeney who was drafted 2 weeks ago will be the first baseman and Alan Valerio will play 3B. The infield is a mix of prospects, sleepers and one or two reclamations.

They are only listing 4 OF's tonight and that's probably wrong, but they have Kendall Coleman, the toolsy kid who is oft injured,  Frankie Frias, the slight over age guy who showed in the GCL last year, Nathan Mikolas, the kid with a good swing but the so so results, and Carlos Vidal.    Everyone has stuff to prove in this group.   Everyone.

The catchers are Matt Walsh - a recent UDFA signing who had a great career at Franlin Pierce. Joining Matt will be Austin Afenir who was drafted this month, and Jesus Aparicio, who's been a second or third tier Yankee catching prospect for years.

This doesn't seem like a particularly intriguing collection of talent.  But last year's monster IFA class will keep coming over and they have at least established another development spot in Pulaski.   We'll see who the must follows are.

Degano Signs for 650K

The Yanks got one of their most intriguing picks, LHP Jeff DeGano, signed at significant savings.   Signing the senior - who may have had another year of eligibity because he missed time for TJS  - saved them 424, 400 against the pool - which they sure as hell better not use on Kaprielian but  should spread around between Gilliam and some of the other interesting picks from day 3.

Meanwhile, Degano, if he can stay healthy, could be one of the steals of the draft.  His velo kept coming back from the left side, and he has some swing and miss.  Nice combo, and hopefully, he can stay a starter.

Terrance Robertons Signs

The Yanks have signed their third prep, to go along with Danny Sand and Drew Finley. Terrance Robertson is a fast, quick twitch guy who could develop good power if he fills out some. I'm still hoping there'll be enough in the war chest for Gilliam, but three preps is two more than they signed last year.

Yanks: Judge to AAA

Aaron Judge has been promoted to AAA,  putting him just one step or one injury away from moving on up to the show.  This is probably not the greatest news for Tyler Austin, who had been coming around at AAA or Ben Gamel who's been pretty good all year.  Judge is coming along nicely, and rather quickly for a Yankee collegiate pick. Jagielo is currently shutdown with a knee after missing time last year, and that's been more conistent with a path of our collegiate power picks.  Remember Bradley Suttle?  There've been a few of them who could actually hit, but couldn't stay healthy.  Sublett was another one.  Anyway, great news for Aaro who will only get better at incorporating his massive power into his AB's.

Yanks Call Up Rumbelow

After today's game the Yanks option DePaula and Burawa and signed Diego Moreno and Nick Rumbelow.  Rumbelow might really be the RHP they need and as you can see in this picture, he's got so similarity to DRob in that long stretch.  He's also similar to Nick Goody who is having strong comeback season in AA following his bout with TJS.   So Goody could be up pretty soon, too.

Yanks Re-Call Flores and Burawa

So, the resurrgent Mason Williams has joined the resurgent Slade Heathcott on the DL.   And Santos is having TJS.  So, the Yanks have sommoned Ramon Flores and the hard throwing Danny Burawa.  Maybe Danny is the RHP they need.  At the rate they're going, Jhalan Jackson will be up by August.

Yanks Finally Honor Willie

So, the Yanks are finally getting around to honoring one of their greats - Willie Randolph.   I used to say that Baseball is one of Life's little IQ tests, it was true then and it's true now.   Willie Randolph was a great player.  He was terrific defender, who was an excellent baserunner and an on base machine at the plate.  In 1980, he waled 119 times and had a OPS+ of 133 for example.  His early career was a little chopped up by injuries, but these came from his fearlesness -  rember when he stood his ground as Hal McCrae ran him over?  Perhaps if he had played in the 1978 World Series, people would have a better understanding of the player he was.

Acquiring Willie Randolph as a 21 year old in the Doc Medich trade was a masterstroke that help lead the Yanks to 5 ALCS's, 4 pennants and 2 rings in his first 6 years.    But he's one of those Yanks, like Murcer and White who will always be underrated because not everyone knows the value of a walk.

Btw, almost all of Willie's power was oppo, and had his career started 10 or 15 years later, he would have had a lot more homers.

This Week on the Blog

Alright, this past week so the Giants conclude their Spring activities and the Yanks continue their uneven play.  While the Giants might not do anything this week, our other three teams are up to big things.

Yanks: The Yanks will continue their inconsistent ways, but hopefully Pinder is ready to be their righty in the pen.  Down on the Farm,  they may or may not continue signing picks or they may push some of them to the deadline.   But, their last three affiliatates, GCL Yanks 1 and 2, as well as the all new Pulaski Yanks, will begin their seasons.  That's means we will see Dermis Garcia and some of the other 2014 IFA class, as well as new Yanks like Drew Finley and Donny Sands.  We'll begin to see just how big a transfusion of talent they've added since last year.

Rangers:  The Ranger will start their draft.  Thus far, they don't have a first round pick, but that doesn't mean they won't have one, as Cam Talbot and more could be on the market.  I'll finally get into my offseason thoughts this week.

Knicks: the Knicks will start shaping their future as they either make or trade the #4 pick in the draft. What's more, cap room and trade exceptions could and should allow them to add more picks even if they make the #4 pick, so it's not an either or situation.  They may have to take on some contracts to facilitate those deals, but being able to the #4 pick plus one or two others would be big.  As it stands they should take whichever one of the top 4 falls.

Giants:  The Giants will probably chill, though they could still make some fringe roster moves or sign  an extra tackle.  They might even use this time to work on their cap and set up their near to mid term cap situation.

So, it will be a really interesting weeks as Yankee kids debut, and the Rangers and Knicks look to add kids and get closer to their goals.   Hope all of you have great weeks.

Yanks Win!

Pitching and homers, one more time!  As the free world knows at this point, Alex Rodriguez notched #3000 with a bomb.  That was his only hit of the night, but it was more Jeterian than Jeter's 3000th hit/homer which he sort of pulled to left centerfield.  It's time that people see ARod for the great player he's always been and stop having him be the scapegoat for hundreds of others.  Gardy (4/5) and DiDi hit the other jacks.  Warren did the fancy pitching and Pinder worked a scoreless 9th.  Big win and big congrats to ARod.

Yanks Call Up Bryan Mitchell and Brandon Pinder

The Yanks optioned Martin and put Santos on the 15-day, then called up Mitchell and Pinder.  Let's hope Mitchell isn't getting a look as the right hander they've been looking at for long relief.  He's been doing well in the Scranton rotation.   However; his hundred mile fastball and other stuff might be seen as just what Girardi is looking for for the pen.   Let's hope that Pinder shows in that role first and they save Mitchell to back up Eovaldi and either take a place in the rotation or stay a starter in Scranton.  We really don't need to go through this yet again.

Giants: Landon Collins Signs

Landon Collins has signed his rookie deal, and as of that, all of the Giant picks have signed. I don't know if he was doing his own deal, or if his agent wanted to wait till the last picks of the first round were signed.

Opening Day for the SI Yanks!

The Staten Island Yankees, the first of the Yanks' four short season teams will debut tonight.  The team is composed primarily of draft picks from the last two drafts, and some IFA's who've been in the system for a few years, but are still young.

So far, they are listing only two catchers.  Jake Hernandez and Eduardo De Oleo should keep balls from rolling to the backstop, but neither has any prospect heat, though I think they thought De Oleo might start hitting at some point.

The infield looks like tha bit of a log jam.  They have Drew Bridges,  Thairo Estrada,  Ty McFarland, Brandon Wagner, Kyle Holder and Ryan Krill.   Holder will play short, and Krill will play first (though Bridges can probably play there some, too).   Now, Estrada is a SS who can play second.   McFarland is a 3B who can play 2nd.  Bridges is a 3B and Wagner is a 2b or something.   They're not really sure.  In any event they all need AB's and they could be tough to come by.

The DH will probably be one of the infielders, because they're only listing 5 OF's.   Jhalan Jackson,  Jeff Hendrix and Zack Zehner should start for right to left with Junior Valera and Griffin Gordon spotting them.

They're listing 16 pitchers to begin the season, including Chance Adams, Will Carter,  Kolton Mahoney, Brett Marks, James Reeves, Josh Roeder and Mark Seyler.   Most of those guys look like bullpen prospects.

The rest are pitchers from last years draft or who've been around a bit including Domingo Acevedo,  Traviss Hissong, Derek Callahan, Yoel Espinal, Matt Borens, Sean Carley,  Luis Cedeno, Johnny Drozd and Ethan Carnes.

Cedeno had a few starts for Charleston this year.  He's the guy with no fastball that keeps getting guys out.

Missing for the pitching list is 20 year old Austin DeCarr, last year's million dollar third round arm. He was 19 when they drafted him and had decent rates in the GCL. Usually guys like that go to Charleston - or SI.  Not so.  We'll see next week when they announce Pulaski.  Otherwise, they've shut him down or will start him with rehab.

Overall, the team could show a little extra power this year with Jackson, Wagner, Zehner, Krill, etc and should be fun to follow.   We'll have to see if any pitching prospects emerge.  They've been waiting on Domingo Acevedo for awhile now.

Yanks Win

Mason Williams had two doubles and Gardy homered as the Yanks came back from a 3-1 deficite and clobberd the Marlns 9-4.  McCann was 3-4 and ARod had two hits leaving him one shy of 3,000.  Drew is still awful and should be gone.  CC actually contributed a "quality" start, though Shreve got the win.   Still a needed win, and they got it.

SI starts tomorrow!

Flowers Signs

The Giants finally got their first rounder signed today.   Ereck Flower acted as his own agent, with advice and review from his Dad and a lawyer and stuck to "slot."  I have no idea why more kids don't do this in slotted drafts, but there you have it.  He has apparently made good progress throught the Spring Practices which finshed today.   The Giants would still do well to find another OL between now and the start of camp on 7/30.

Some Knicks Stuff

So the Knicks sort of secretly worked out D'Angelo Russell last week.  And they've also worked out Mudiay. If either of this guards is available, they need to grab him.  If they are both available because Porzingas has moved into the top three, they should take Russell, who I see as a bigger Steph Curry, though, if they like Mudiay, who can attack the rim from the wing or the middle of the Triangle, like Kobe and MJ did, I could understand that, too.  What they can't do is take Willie Cauley-Stein at 4, and I wouldn't even want him now in a trade down.  WCS would be a great pick a year or two from now, when the Knicks could have a top 5 and need an energetic stretch 4 as 6th man or for a change of pace, but he literally does not have enough sand in his pants to ever defend the low post and he probably won't be able to back anyone down on offense any time soon.

The Knicks need to get a building block - a long term solution to 1,2,3,4 or 5 at pick 4.  If they get one of the guards we should party like it's 1973.  Or if one of the two real bigs somehow falls to them  - likewise.  But they can't get someone who can't start, and that rules out WCS and probably Winslow because they can't play Carmello at the 4 without an outstanding 5, which they're just not gonna barring a draft day miracle.

Yanks Win

Michael Pineda was on and no-hit the Marlins till giving up a bomb in the 7th, and he really had no other choice but to dominate as he did.  The Yanks could only muster 2 runs, even though they had men on pretty often.  Overall, a much needed win, but they almost wasted great pitching -- which they cannot afford to do.

Yankees Draft Review Pt.6: Signings

So, either 8 or nine of the Yanks top 10 picks have signed, and of those only Drew Finley has commanded an over slot bonus. Though I believe the Yanks, due mostly to injuries are in a position where they had to get Finley, going over on a top 10 pick really jams them up for the back thirty picks.

We saw this last year when they gave 3rd rounder Austin DeCarr an overslot payment for a much smaller draft pool and then couldn't really lock up any of their most intriguing signability guys from rounds 11-40.  So, though I believe they had to have Finley, I wonder if they could have still gotten him for less if they'd been a little more patient.

Seems everyone else is slot or under in the top 10 picks.  Btw, when I was writing up Brendan Wagner last week, I didn't realize he is only 19 and fits right into that offensive age group with the Yanks are a little short.  So does Danny Sands and he's already in under slot.

We're still waiting on Jeff Degano, the second round senior who could net the Yanks huge savings -- and of course they shouldn't budge overslot for James Kaprielian.   If he won't sign for slot, the Yanks get the pick back, but lose the slot money -- but it wouldn't effect their other savings.  Essentially going over slot with any of your top 10 picks is really regrettable.

Yankees Draft Review, Pt.5: More Pitchers

From round 11 through round 40, the Yankees drafted 19 more pitchers, the vast majority of whom are righties.  And while they stuck right around the 6'3" model they working in the first ten rounds,  they did grab some bigger guys as time went on and also, some funky delivery guys, including at least one guy with a split.

In round 11, the Yanks took LHP Josh Rogers from Louisville.   Josh is 6'3", 190 and will be 21 on 7/10.   As of right now, Josh isn't signing.   This could lead to a bit of a June/early July D and F, as he pitches in a league and the Yanks see if they want to sweeten their offer.   I don't think he's a big stuff lefty, so I don't think it'll be that great a loss if the Yanks pass and let him re-enter the draft as a senior  no leverage and mediocre stuff.

From rounds 14-17, the Yanks drafted 4 RHP's.   They are Will Carter, a 6'3", 195, senior from Alabama, where the Yanks have had some success.    In the 15th, the Yanks stayed in the SEC and re-drafted Brett Marks, who they had drafted years a few years ago.  He's 6'3, 190 and a senior who's developed a split since last time the Yanks took him.   Next they took Kolton Mahoney, a 6'1", 195 23 year old junior from BYU.  In the 17th, they took Brody Koerner, a 6'2", 200 junior from Clemson.  I'm pretty sure this entire group of major college arms  has already signed.

In round 19, the Yanks added 6'3" 190, 21 year old junior, Mark Seyler.  This kid had a really interesting year at San Diego State, where he didn't strikeout that many and his K to BB rate was just around 2-1.  However, he was 9 and 3 with a 2.77 era and a 1.13 whip.  He did this by only giving up 86 hits in 107.1 innings.  So he must be good at getting getting grounders or otherwise bad contact.  Sort of interesting.

In round 2, they began another run of 4 RHP's in a row, starting with the Nebrasks closer Josh Roeder.  He's only 5'11" but has a fastball and slider that work for him.  He's a senior.  Next the Yanks took Cody Carroll, a 6'5" 200 seniorwho signed earlier today from Southern Miss.  He's pictured above.  After that they went back to Fresno State and took senior Garrett Mundell.  He's 6'6" and 245.    It will be interesting to see what kind of velo they eventually coax out of that big body.

In the 24th, the Yanks made a really interesting pick when they listed draftable UCSB C, Patrick O'Brien as a right handed pitcher.  He's an old sophomore with that the fool's gold of a DES designation.  I think they'll probably June/July him and see if they can buy out his phony leverage.  He's 6'5" 230 and  throws hard.

In the 26th they drafted another RHP: a 5th year senior name Icezack Flemming.  He's 6'2" 200 and any performance they can get from him will just be the cherry on top of an all-world name.

In 28, the Yanks went back to the SEC and took 6'2" 220 junior David Sosebee.  Not sure what they like about this guy, but I think he came back from an injury.

From round 30-36 the Yanks 6 more pitchers, then were done for the draft.  5 of them were righties and the other one was Andrew Miller II -- we'll get to him.

In the 30th, they took Chad Martin, a sort of intriguing junior from Delaware.  He's 6'4" 215 and still has some projection left.  He has stuff and a decent K rate, but he walks too many and needs control.

In the 31, they took Pittsburgh senior Hobie Harris.  He's 6'3" and 200 and feels pretty organizational, but from a school where they have been popping some guys.

With their 32nd pick, they saluted Alexander Robinett, a 6'0" 215 guy from Army who nuked his level of competition out of the pen.  Not sure how much access they'll have to him, but probably a pretty mature addition to the organization.

In the 3rd, they took Chris Morris, and 6'4"195 junior from Indiana, who is coming off an unimpressive season.  They must see something they like.  No big loss if he wants more.

In the 34th, they made one of their most intriguing picks by taking lefty Andrew Miller from Sterling, HS.  He's 6'3" and 195 and seems to have already broken through the 88-92 ceiling on a lot of lefties. He says he's going the Maryland but if there is a day three pitcher to spend on, it's this kid.  He's the Gilliam of the pitching picks.  Seems like they'll try and do a mini-D&F and if they feel they've got to have him see if there's anything left.

In the 35th, they took another senior, Alex Bisaaca, from Sam Huston State.  He's 6'2" and 215 and had a sub-1.00 WHIP as a senior.  So maybe he's figured something out.

The Yanks finished their pitching heavy draft by taking big bodied Dustin Cook, a nominal junior who has now been drafted 4 times. We'll see if he finally wants to sign.  He's 6'5" and 225 and teams like big guys like that.

In all, the Yanks stayed mostly right handed, which seemed to be a strength of the draft.  We'll see if they can get Miller, then if anyone they do sign can excel.  It's a big group and maybe some will make it.

Giants Start Mini-Camp

This is it.  For the next three days, the Giants will take part in the annual mandatory mini-camp.  JPP will not show up, and cannot be penalized because he has not signed his tender.  Basically, it would  be nice to see cohesion developing on D, as well as along the OL, where it would be a great thing if one of the younger players could start stepping up and become that 5th guy.  As it is we're going to be counting on a rookie to play LOT as it is.  That will be huge for the season, but huge for right now is no more injuries.   So let's hope for cohesion and no injuries.

This Week On the Blog

Alright, last week was eventful, between the Yanks draft, the Mason Williams call-up. the Knicks starting to work out everyone, and the Giants completing OTA's.  This week should follow suit.

Yanks: the Yanks will continue to sign their picks, and I'll have more on my draft review starting later today.  Also, the NYPL will start playing games later this week, with Pulaski and the GCL sarting a few days later.  Those rosters should be fascinating.

On the big league level, we'll see if the media criticism of Giradi keeps emerging, and if they can fix the pen and rotation without hurting the farm.

Giants:  The Giants annual Mandatory Mini-Camp starts tomorrow and runs through Thursday.  We'll see if JPP shows up.  We'll also hope that there are no more injuries.  Off the practice field, the Giants should continue their search for another OL, and consider extending some contracts.

Rangers: Stil not too eager to talk about them, but they're probably going to start their organization meetings soon, and those could be huge. Meanwhile, they should also be trying to find their way back into the first round of what looks like a monster draft.

Knicks:  The Knicks will continue to work out players aheat of next weeks NBA draft.  I'd rather seem them find ways to get more picks, rather than trading down from #4.

So, the big events will be the Giants min-camp and the Yankee stuff.   The Rangers and Knicks will have to keep getting ready.  I wish all of you a great week.

Yankees Draft Review, Pt. 4: Pitchers

The Yanks grabbed 24 new pitchers this week and I really like their chances with a bunch of them, especially, but not limited to, the four they drafted in the Top 10 Rounds.

First two notes.

1) I am hopping on a plane in 3 hours and heading East till Sunday, so this will be my last update before Sunday.

2) Pitching is weird.  And the way people try to stack pitcher is sort of a waste of time - no one is a totally finished package when they are drafted.  Guys can an do add velocity and learn new pitches.  Heck, look at what learning the slider during ST did for Ron Guidry?  Look at what learning the cutter did for Mo.  Look what learning the splitter has done for lots of pitchers.   To that end I'm  a believer in using draft to stockpile arms.

Back to our review.

In round 1 at 16, the Yanks took James Kaprielian the swing and miss righty from UCLA.  First, his velo has been up, and if it stays that way, JK has ace potential.  And if his velo recedes, guess what he's still got ace potential.  Movement is more important that velocity and he's already got good movement.   And he's a strike thrower.   May not be our most exciting pick, but we could end up loving him for long time.

Next, they took LHP Jeff DeGano.  I love this pick and feel like we could have something special, first off he's already had TJS so as long as he's not Christian Garcia, it's just about building from here.  He has a "slurve" which he changes shapes with, sometimes making it more of slider, other times more of a curve.  But he gets swing and miss, and has 90-94 and up on his fastball.  Needs to work on his change or add a split, but as exciting rebuilty arm to have.

At #92 in round 3, the Yanks took RHP starter Drew Finley.  This guy is the high school version of Kapierlian, and what's more, the 6'3" 200 department of pitcher is place where the Yanks shopped heavily this week.   He has filthy breaking stuff already,  and even though he doesn't seem to be your typical throws 96 prep righty, and should have a lower ceiling -- swing and miss is better than hard and straight and he's already got that.   Huge addition to the system.

In round 5, they took Adam Chance, a typical Yankee bullpen pick.  Chance does throw hard and has a swing and miss slider.  Just turn him loose.

In round 10 the Yanks took LHP James Reeves from The Citadel.   Another 6'3" 200 hundred guy, and a pitchability senior pick.  We'll see what else he can learn.

And uh-oh-- I'll have to finish this Sunday night or Monday morning.  Have a great weekend everyone!

Yankees Draft Review, Pt. 3 - The Bats

In all, the Yanks took 17 positions players.   Of those 4 are Senior bats and the rest come with one degree of signability or another.  And probably a lot of how this draft is regarded will rest on which signable bats are brought in and which ones aren't.  That's for two reasons - first they took so many pitchers they are bound to have some hits, and second is because the Yanks didn't add any undeniable bats in the first, second or third rounds.

In fact, the first two hitters the Yanks took are more or less known for their gloves.  Kyle Holder, who is apparently and universally heralded as a great defenisive shortstop, come with a lot of people questioning his bat.  By the way, he signed already.

Then, in the 4th the Yanks took Jeff Hendrix a junior CF from Oregon State.  Jeff's got good speed and can pick em in the OF, but was being projected as a 4th OF, and that wouldn't happen if there was hight regard for his bat.

Btw, both Kyle and Jeff have OPS'd over .900 in their respective junior years, so maybe they're both coming on.   That would be fantastic for the Yankees.  Hendrix will probably sign soon, too, so that will knock out two of their hitters with leverage, but maybe not possessing true Yankee Bats.

But until they prove it in the pro's a lot will depend on what happens with the rest of the bats.  Starting in the 6th the bats got really interesting.   At that point the Yanks popped Brandon Wagner, the Babe Ruth of the Bayou.  This guy was the best JuCo player in Texas and put up cartoony power numbers, and he walks.   He has leverage but it sounds like he's in and can't wait to take aim at the short porch in Right.

Next, the Yanks took the first of their intriguing Senior Bats in RF Jhalan Jackson.  This is another guy who showed big power with year and was one of the most highly regarded seniors in the whole draft.  He has no leverage, so let's hope he keeps it going in SI or Pulaski.

Next, the Yanks popped Donny Sands, who became their first top 10 position pick since 2013.  Donny has indicated he's signing, and that's great for the Yanks for a few reasons, notably though, because he  will begin filling in the current hole between the 17 year old hitters and the guys in their 20s.   He'll probably be ticketed for the GCL.  And it would be fantastic if he became a real opton for 3B going forward.

In th 9th, the Yanks picked the Senior 1B from MSU, Ryan Krill.    This is a big 6'3" 235 pounder who suddenly started to engage his natural power with the baseball this year.  He's a senior, but an ascendant guy, so there may be some more upside.

Next the Yanks took toolsy CF's Terrance Robertson and Trey Amburgey in rounds 12 and 13.  Terrance is a prep and Trey is a JuCo, so it's probably one of the other with these two.  Terrance is more speed than anything elsee at this point, where Trey's got everty club in his bag, but has been injured a bunch.

In the 18th the Yanks took intriguing power hitting corner OF Zack Zehner.  He was a 5th year senior who was still improving this year.  See, they weren't throwing away these senior picks like some teams seem to.

In round 20, the Yankees made one of their most crucial picks. Isiah Gilliam is an 18 year old switch hitting behemoth at 6'3" 220 with light tower power from either side.  He's a JuCo and thus has leverage, but he's exactly the kind of hitter the Yanks were probably looking for in round 1.  And he would joint Donny Sands in really starting to fill in that 18 year old gap in the prospect chain.    This is a really important hitter for the Yanks and they sort of have to get him.  It seems like he has a true Yankee Bat.   This one is a big deal.

Next they took senior catcher Austin "Audie" Afenir.  Probably a catch and throw guy who's s a senior and the son of one of their scouts.  Future manager?

In the 27th, the Yanks made another intriguing pick when they popped monstrous prep 1B Michael Hicks who is 6'7 and 245 and hits lefty I have no idea what kind of athlete he is, though I do think he's also a football player, probably a TE.   It would be really interesting if they could bring this 18 year old in and see what he can become.  There's either big power or big power projection there already.  But he's also in the area of the draft where there just might not be enough money left.

In the 29th they took yet another lefty swinging senior 1B in Kane Sweeney.  He's more standard sized for a 1B, but is yet another intriguing senior who might hit a bit.

Then they took a break before finishing the draft with four really intriguing hitting prospects starting with prep 3B, Matthew Schmidt in round 37.   He's almost certainly going to college but begins to beg a question that will get to a bit later.

In 38 they took, Lehigh 2B Mike Garzillo. Like Brandon Wagner, Garzillo dominated a lower level, but that's exactly what you want from your lower level picks - domination.

In 39 the Yanks took,  Prep INF  Deacon Liput and this cat can slam, too.  But again, he'll probably go to college because the money will probably run out well before round 39.  Unless he wants to start his pro career.

They finished by taking the Catawba College catcher, Will Alberton and he's an impressive hitter, too.

So here's the question that was begged from pic 37 on.  Why didn't the Yanks take them sooner?  The system really needs more impact bats, especially in the Schmidt, Liput age group, so why not grab them when there'd be a better chance of getting them?

We'll see what happens with the Day 3 guys, but that will largerly make or break this draft.  Some of the seniors will have to hit, and they're going to have to sign some of the 18 year olds, especially Isiah Gilliam.  Obviously it's not a one person draft - though if just one guy can become a regular he will pay for the class - and the Yanks could really help themselves and their futures by adding even more power bats -- though they did do a very good job finding senior bats, and it looks like the Ruthian Wagner is on the way, and that could be really fun.