Dominguez Still on Top, Two New Arms Make Yanks Top 10
The Yankees are betting big on the arms of Ben Hess and Bryce Cunningham, making them their top picks in this year’s MLB Draft. The confidence isn’t just from the Yankees, though—MLB Pipeline’s scouts and evaluators are just as high on these young right-handers. Hess and Cunningham have quickly jumped into the organization’s top 10 prospects, with Hess snagging the No. 8 spot and Cunningham right behind at No. 9.
Hess isn’t just about the stuff; he’s all about the mindset too. “I’m a competitor,” Hess says. “Whether I’ve got my A-plus stuff or I’m not feeling it that day, I’m out there competing, and that’s going to help me succeed in pro ball.” That’s the kind of attitude you love to see in a top prospect.
Now, let’s talk movers and shakers. Cade Smith has made the biggest jump, rocketing from the No. 25 spot in the preseason rankings to No. 12 at midseason. Smith’s been sharp, posting a 6-6 record with a 3.47 ERA in 19 games for Single-A Tampa, earning himself a ticket to High-A Hudson Valley. His debut there wasn’t too shabby either, giving up just one two-run homer in nearly five innings.
But it’s not all good news. Kyle Carr, who came in hot as the Yankees’ third-round pick last year, has had a rough go this season. Carr’s slipped from No. 12 to No. 26, struggling with a 1-6 record and a 5.13 ERA in Hudson Valley. The talent’s there, but he’s got some work to do.
As for the new faces on the block, Hess and Cunningham headline a list of fresh prospects, with Thatcher Hurd, Gage Ziehl, and Griffin Herring also joining the Yankees’ Top 30.
When it comes to raw tools, the Yankees have a lot to be excited about. Jasson Domínguez leads in power, Brando Mayea is the speedster, and Roderick Arias has an arm that’s pure fire. On the mound, Carlos Lagrange’s fastball is off the charts, and Ben Hess’s curveball and Bryce Cunningham’s changeup are both already turning heads.
It’s a good time to be a Yankees fan with an eye on the future. These young guns could be making waves in the Bronx sooner than later.
This article is based on a report by Bryan Hoch for MLB.com. Read full article here
