Month: April 2025

Yankees MILB 4/8: Spencer Jones Homers

Notes:

Nothing to report

Scranton (5-4)

Their game against Rochester was postponed. They will try to play two tomorrow.

Somerset (1-3) (Lost a tough one to Reading, 5-4. Reading scored four runs in the top of the 9th to take the win)

3B Jesus Rodriguez: 0-for-4, K
A tough 1-for-18 start to his campaign.
CF Spencer Jones: 1-for-2, HR (1), RBI, R, SB (1), 2 BB
4-for-13 (1 double, 1 HR, 2 RBI, 3 R, 1 SB, 4 BB, 5 K)
C Rafael Flores: 1-for-4, 2 K
1B Dylan Jasso: 0-for-4, 2 K
RF Garrett Martin: 1-for-3, HR (1), RBI, R, HBP, K
Martin hit 12 HR in 87 games for Hudson Valley last year.
DH Tyler Hardman: 0-for-3, R, BB, K
SS Jake Gatewood: 0-for-4, 2 K
LF Jared Wegner: 0-for-4, 3 K
2B Alexander Vargas: 2-for-4, 2B (2), RBI
4-for-8 with a pair of doubles and two RBI.

RHP Brendan Beck: 4 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 5 K
The Yankees drafted the 26-year-old in the 2nd round in 2021 (Stanford). Considered a “fast track” type, injuries have slowed him considerably. His only action came in 2023, when he pitched 34 innings over ten starts for the FCL (one start)/Hudson Valley (9 starts). The road has been long, but we’ve seen successful pitchers start their careers in their mid-to-late 20s.
RHP Indigo Diaz: 1.2 IP, 0 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 2 BB, 2 K
RHP Harrison Cohen: 1.1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K
RHP Kelly Austin: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 2 BB, 0 K
RHP Jordany Ventura:  (L, 0-1) 0.1 IP, 1 H, 4 R, 3 ER, 3 BB, 0 K
Meltdown alert.
RHP Zach Greene: 0.2 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 0 K

Hudson Valley (2-2) (Lost to Brooklyn, 7-3)

CF Brendan Jones: 0-for-3, BB, 2 K
2-for-18 (2B, 3B, 3 RBI, R, 1-for-1 SB, 2 BB, 8 K)
SS George Lombard Jr.: 0-for-3, R, SB (1), BB, K
3-for-13 (3B, RBI, 4 R, 1-for-2 SB, 3 BB, 5 K)
LF Jackson Castillo: 0-for-3, SB (1), BB, K
RF Jace Avina: 1-for-4, R, 2 K
C Omar Martinez: 0-for-4, RBI, 2 K
3B Josh Moylan: 1-for-3, 2B (1), RBI, R, BB, K
Moylan had buzz when the Yankees signed him as an undrafted free agent in 2023. His 2024 season (.246/.357/.381; 8 HR, 42 RBI) left room for improvement, so he is back at this level.
1B Coby Morales: 0-for-3, K
DH Antonio Gomez: 1-for-2, RBI, BB, K
2B Jose Colmenares: 0-for-3

RHP Carlos Lagrange: (L, 0-1)  3 IP, 6 H, 5 R, 5 ER, 2 BB, 7 K, HR
Loaded with talent in his 6’7″ frame, the 21-year-old has dealt with injuries and wildness in his brief (98.2 IP) career.
RHP Cole Ayers: 2 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 3 K
The 25-year-old pitched to a 3.09 ERA in 55.1 IP at this level in 2024.  He briefly made his way to Somerset, but is back here to begin 2025.
LHP Geoffrey Gilbert: 1.2 IP, 2 H, 2 R, 1 ER, 1 BB, 2 K
RHP Ocean Gabonia: 1.1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 3 K

Tampa (3-1) (Came back to defeat Fort Myers, 5-3. The Tarpons scored five times in the top of the 9th)

SS Roderick Arias: 1-for-4, 2B (1), RBI, R, SB (1), BB, 2 K
Arias finally collects that first hit of 2025 (1-for-16; 7 K). He doubled, scored a run, drove home a run, and walked in the 9th.
C Edgleen Perez: 0-for-3, 2 K
   PH-C Josue Gonzalez: 0-for-1, R, BB, K
CF Brian Sanchez: 1-for-4, 3B (2), K
Speed is a big part of the 20-year-old’s game. He should be able to stick in CF.
DH Engelth Urena: 0-for-3, RBI, BB, K
1B Parks Harber: 1-for-3, RBI, CS (1), BB, K
Harber’s RBI single in the top of the 9th tied the game.
RF Tyler Wilson: 0-for-4, 2 K
LF Dillon Lewis: 1-for-3, R, BB, K
2B Austin Green: 1-for-4, 2 RBI, SB (1), K
Green’s 2-run single broke the 2-2 tie in the 9th.
3B Juan Matheus: 0-for-3, BB, K

RHP Andrew Landry: 4 IP, 4 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 2 BB, 4 K
The 23-year-old was drafted in the 16th round in 2023 (Southeastern Louisiana). In 2024, he pitched in seven games at this level, posting a 6.98 ERA in 19.1 IP with 16 walks and 12 strikeouts.
RHP Cole Zaffiro: 2 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 2 K
The Yankees signed the 22-year-old as an undrafted free agent last year (Wake Forest).
RHP Gus Hughes: (W, 1-0)  2 IP, 0 H, 1 R, 0 ER, 3 BB, 1 K
Hughes’ first career win. Congrats.
RHP Alex Bustamante (S, 1): 0.1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 1 K

FCL (0-0)

Their season starts on May 3rd.

DSL (0-0)

Their season starts in June.

Yankees MILB 4/6: Bryce Cunningham Impresses in Debut

Notes:

Nothing to report

Scranton (5-4) (Doubled Up Syracuse, 8-4)

CF Ismael Munguia: 2-for-5, 2 R, SB (2)
Munguia’s solid start continues (11-for-35 (.314/.400/.371)).
RF Everson Pereira: 2-for-4, HR (1), 2 RBI, 2 R, BB, K
Do the Yankees feel that Pereira can be the right-handed bat they seek? I have no idea.
1B T.J. Rumfield: 0-for-4, R, BB, K
C Alex Jackson: 1-for-4, 2 RBI, R, BB, K
LF Dominic Smith: 0-for-3, BB
3B Jose Rojas: 1-for-4, RBI, K
  3B Jorbit Vivas: 1-for-1, HR (2), 3 RBI, R
Vivas makes the most of his at-bat. He is 10-for-33 (.303) with a pair of doubles, homers, and 9 RBI.
DH Ronaldo Hernandez: 1-for-5, 2 K
SS Andrew Velazquez: 1-for-5
2B Braden Shewmake: 1-for-3, R, BB, K

RHP Zach Messinger: 4 IP, 6 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 3 BB, 2 K
8 IP, 10 H, 4 R, 4 ER, 4 BB, 4 K
RHP Colten Brewer: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 1 K
RHP Allan Winans: 2.2 IP, 3 H, 1 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 3 K
RHP Kervin Castro (W, 1-0): 1.1 IP, 1 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 1 BB, 3 K

Somerset (1-2) (Mauled by Hartford, 16-5)

3B Jesus Rodriguez: 0-for-5, R
Rodriguez is facing a challenge for the first time in his career, as he is hitting .204/.257/.367 in 26 Double-A games. He will need to adjust to the upper level.
DH Spencer Jones: 1-for-3, R, BB, K
3-for-11 with a double, two walks, and five strikeouts.
C Rafael Flores: 1-for-4, HR (2), 3 RBI, R, K
Flores has homered in back-to-back games and has 17 in 68 Double-A games over the last two seasons. The power looks real.
1B Tyler Hardman: 1-for-3, BB, K
LF Cole Gabrielson: 0-for-4, 3 K
CF Garrett Martin: 0-for-2, R, SB (1), 2 BB, 2 K
RF Jared Wegner: 0-for-3, BB, 2 K
SS Jake Gatewood: 0-for-3, R, SB (1), HBP, K
2B Alexander Vargas: 1-for-2, RBI, HBP
  PH Max Burt: 0-for-1

RHP Trent Sellers: 3 IP, 2 H, 4 R, 4 ER, 3 BB, 6 K, HR
The 25-year-old broke out in 2024, pitching to a 2.26 ERA in 83.2 IP with a 100/40 K/BB (only allowed 43 hits). While he made an emergency appearance for Scranton, I would consider today his upper-level debut (he spent last year in Hudson Valley).
RHP Colby White (L, 0-1): 1.1 IP, 4 H, 6 R, 6 ER, 1 BB, 3 K, HR
RHP Cole Percival: 0.2 IP, 4 H, 4 R, 4 ER, 0 BB, 1 K, HR
Percival was signed to a minor league contract in January. This is his first go-around for an East Coast organization (previously with the Dodgers, Angels, and Diamondbacks).  Yes, he is the son of former Angels’ closer Troy Percival.
RHP Zach Greene: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K
It’s been a long road for the 28-year-old drafted by the Yankees in 2019. He was drafted in the Rule 5 by the Mets in 2022, but injuries kept him off the MLB roster. He was returned to the Yankees in 2023 and this is his first appearance since that year.
RHP Luis Pacheco: 0.1 IP, 3 H, 2 R, 1 ER, 1 BB, 1 K
RHP Danny Watson: 1.2 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 4 K
A healthy season for Watson would add some extra punch to the organization. Before a tough 2024 season (coming off of an injury), he was dominant in 2023 (1.58 ERA with an 82/25 K/BB over 62.2 IP)

Hudson Valley (2-1) (Defeated Jersey Shore, 6-2)

LF Brendan Jones: 0-for-5, 3 K
SS George Lombard Jr.: 1-for-3, R, CS (1), BB, HBP, K
3-for-10 with a triple and a pair of walks. 
C Omar Martinez: 2-for-5, R, 2 K
5-for-13
CF Jace Avina: 2-for-5, 2 R, 2 K
3B-1B Josh Moylan: 0-for-2, SF, RBI, HBP
2B Jose Colmenares: 2-for-4, 2B (1), 2 RBI, R, K
The 23-year-old had a strong 26-game audition here in 2023 (.244/.410/.564 with seven home runs). However, he missed all of 2024 to injury.
RF Anthony Hall: 2-for-4, 2B (1), HR (1), 3 RBI, R, K
An interesting prospect when he was drafted in the 4th round in 2022, injuries have limited Hall’s playing time. In 48 games last year, he hit .222/.320/.316 with a pair of home runs.
DH Tomas Frick: 0-for-3, BB
1B Kiko Romero: 2-for-3, 2B (1), K
  3B Brenny Escanio: 1-for-1

RHP Bryce Cunningham (W, 1-0): 5 IP, 5 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 0 BB, 7 K
The Yankees drafted a lot of pitchers in 2024. Cunningham (22; 6’5″) was taken in the 2nd round out of Vanderbilt. Throwing in the mid-to-upper 90s, he has a chance to become your favorite pitching prospect in the system. That is his ceiling. Will he reach it?
LHP Will Brian: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 0 K
The 25-year-old pitched in two games in 2022, 2023, and 2024. Hopefully, he can break the 3-game barrier in 2025 (injuries, injuries, injuries).
RHP Chris Kean: 1 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 1 K
Kean had an impressive 2024 debut, pitching to a 1.08 ERA in 25 games (33.1 IP). He allowed 15 hits, walked five, and struck out 44.
RHP Bryce Warrecker: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 1 K
Warrecker stands an impressive 6’8″. In 19 starts last year, he went 2-7 with a 5.79 ERA and 46/30 K/BB over 65.1 innings.
RHP Huey Morrill: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 1 K

Tampa (2-1) (The undefeated dream is over as they lose to Lakeland, 6-5)

SS Roderick Arias: 0-for-5, K
A tough start to the season for Arias (0-for-12, 1 R, 3 BB, 5 K)
DH Edgleen Perez: 1-for-5, R, 2 K
RF Brian Sanchez: 1-for-4, 3B (1), 2 RBI, 2 R, BB, K
Sanchez has 9 triples in 341 career plate appearances.
C Engelth Urena: 0-for-3, SF, RBI, BB, 2 K
3B Parks Harber: 0-for-3, R, BB, K
LF Tyler Wilson: 1-for-4, BB, K
2B Austin Green: 3-for-5, 2 RBI, K
Green’s first career multi-hit effort.
1B Josue Gonzalez: 0-for-4
CF Marshall Toole: 1-for-3, R, SB (1), BB, K
Last year’s 15th-round pick (Tulsa) hit .255/.449/.353 in 17 games with an 8-for-10 stolen base rate in his debut at this level.

RHP Greysen Carter: 3 IP, 1 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 5 BB, 4 K
The professional debut for their 5th-round pick in the 2024 draft (Vanderbilt). Carter is known to hit triple digits, but the talent is raw. Last season for Vanderbilt, he posted a 6.58 ERA in 39.2 IP with a 38/31 K/BB.
LHP Tyler Matzek: 1 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 0 BB, 2 K
The first rehab appearance for the 34-year-old.  The Yankees have an upcoming bullpen jam to work out.
RHP Jackson Fristoe: 2 IP, 2 H, 3 R, 3 ER, 2 BB, 2 K
The strong-armed 24-year-old has dealt with injuries and wildness in his brief professional career.
RHP Jack Sokol (L, 0-1): 1.1 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 1 BB, 1 K
The professional debut for Sokol, who was signed as an undrafted free agent out of Pittsburgh in 2024.
RHP Tony Rossi: 1.2 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K
Rossi, who turns 26 in July, makes his professional debut. He was signed as an undrafted free agent last year (UNC Charlotte). 

FCL (0-0)

Their season starts on May 3rd.

DSL (0-0)

Their season starts in June.

Yankees MILB 4/5: Spencer Jones Singles, Doubles

Notes:

Nothing to report

Scranton (4-4) (Lost to Syracuse, 7-4)

1B Dominic Smith: 0-for-4, K
LF Everson Pereira: 1-for-4, K
7-for-25 with four RBI. He is looking for his first extra-base hit. Given that extra-base power is his “thing,” I am not worried.
2B Jorbit Vivas: 1-for-4
DH T.J. Rumfield: 1-for-3, HR (3), RBI, R,  BB
.303/.395/.636 in 38 PA. 
C Ronaldo Hernandez: 0-for-4, K
3B Braden Shewmake: 0-for-3, R, BB
RF Grant Richardson: 1-for-4, HR (1), 2 RBI, R, 2 K
5-for-11 with a double, homer, 5 RBI, and 6 runs scored.
SS Andrew Velazquez: 1-for-4, HR (1), RBI, R, K
CF Duke Ellis: 0-for-3

RHP Sean Boyle (L, 0-2): 5 IP, 5 H, 6 R, 6 ER, 3 BB, 6 K, HR
RHP Eric Reyzelman: 2 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 3 K
4.2 IP, 3 H, 2 R, 1 HR, 2 BB, 8 K
RHP McKinley Moore: 1 IP, 0 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 2 BB, 0 K

Somerset (1-1) (Defeated Hartford, 6-2)

2B Dylan Jasso: 1-for-3, 2 BB, K
Jasso’s first career game at second base.
CF Spencer Jones: 2-for-4, 2B (1), RBI, R, BB, 2 K
How many times in his career have I written “2-for-4, 2 K” in a Spencer Jones stat line? I will gladly take the hits.
1B Rafael Flores: 3-for-5, HR (1), 2 RBI, R
In 67 Double-A games: .280/.362/.528 (14 doubles, 16 HR, 35 RBI, 41 R, 7-for-7 SB, 28 BB (9.9%), 75 K (26.6%)
C Jesus Rodriguez: 0-for-5, 2 K
DH Tyler Hardman: 1-for-4, R, 2 K
Before his 2023 injury, Hardman was hitting .237/.332/.558 with 26 HR in only 77 games at this level. Since coming back, the power hasn’t returned (8 HR in 76 games at this level).
RF Garrett Martin: 0-for-3, R, HBP, K
SS Jake Gatewood: 1-for-4, 2B (1), R, 3 K
LF Jared Wegner: 1-for-3, RBI, BB, K
3B Max Burt: 2-for-4, 2 RBI, R, SB (1)
Burt is grinding it out. The Yankees drafted him in the 28th round in 2018 out of Northeastern. He re-signed as a minor league free agent in March to begin his 7th season with the organization.

RHP Clarke Schmidt: 3.1 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 7 K
52 pitches/37 strikes. This is what you wanted to see in his first rehab appearance.
LHP Edgar Barclay (W, 1-0): 3 IP, 1 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 2 BB, 3 K
RHP Harrison Cohen: 0.2 IP, 3 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 0 BB, 2 K
RHP Kelly Austin: 2 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 4 K
The 24-year-old was acquired from the Houston Astros for Caleb Ferguson last July (the Yankees also received international bonus pool money in the transaction). 

Hudson Valley (1-1) (Walked it off against Jersey Shore, 8-7)

RF Brendan Jones: 2-for-5, 3B (1), 3 RBI, R, SB (1), BB, K
For now, Jones is credited with a 3-run game-winning single. We’ll see if that holds, or if some shenanigans occurred. Either way, exciting walk-off win! 
SS George Lombard Jr.: 1-for-4, 3B (1), SF, RBI, R, 2 K
If the extra-base power shows up this year (as many expect), watch out.
CF Jackson Castillo: 1-for-4, RBI, R, BB, 2 K
The top of this batting order is enviously athletic. 
LF Jace Avina: 2-for-4, 2B (1), R, BB
DH Omar Martinez: 1-for-4, RBI, BB, K
3B Josh Moylan: 1-for-4, BB, K
1B Coby Morales: 1-for-4, RBI, R, BB, K
C Antonio Gomez: 1-for-3, HR (1), RBI, R
  C Tomas Frick: 2-for-2, 2B (1), R
Frick performed well for Tampa last year, hitting .250/.370/.368 in 173 plate appearances. It was his professional debut after being drafted in the 15th round in 2023.
2B Brenny Escanio: 1-for-3, R, 2 SB (2), 2 BB, K

RHP Elmer Rodriguez-Cruz: 4.1 IP, 2 H, 3 R, 3 ER, 3 BB, 4 K
Rodriguez-Cruz was acquired from the Red Sox in exchange for catcher Carlos Narvaez. He is the type of “lottery ticket” arm you should target for a 40-man roster guy. Only 21, he went 5-5 with a 2.91 ERA in 89.2 IP between Low-A and High-A last season with a 102/43 K/BB.
RHP Sebastian Keane: 1.2 IP, 0 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 2 BB, 2 K
RHP Hayden Merda: 1.1 IP, 2 H, 3 R, 2 ER, 2 BB, 2 K
The 6’6″ Merda missed the 2024 season. At this level in 2023, he went 3-6 with a 6.21 ERA in 21 games (20 starts), posting a 96/57 K/BB over 95.2 innings. The Yankees signed him as an undrafted free agent in 2022.
RHP Tyrone Yulie: 1.2 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 1 K
Another pitcher who missed the 2024 season. In 2023, at this level, he posted a 4.56 ERA in 79 IP with a 90/43 K/BB.

Tampa (2-0) (Defeated Lakeland, 7-6, in ten innings)

SS Roderick Arias: 0-for-4, 2 BB, 2 K
Even as I talk about Arias being a “raw” talent, he sneakily puts up solid BB rates (12.3% last year). 
C Edgleen Perez: 1-for-2, 2 R, BB
Perez is only 18 years old. He easily conquered the DSL and FCL, earning himself this challenge.  He is amongst the youngest players in the Florida State League (he is not the youngest. Andrew Salas (Marlins) holds that distinction).
   C Josue Gonzalez: 0-for-2, R, BB
CF Brian Sanchez: 0-for-5, R, BB, K
DH Engelth Urena: 1-for-3, 2B (1), 2 RBI, R, 3 BB, K
Urena’s 2023 injury stalled his timetable, but he is still only 20 years old.  In 40 FCL games last year, he hit 11 doubles and 8 HR while driving home 31. The power potential he possesses is legitimate
1B Parks Harber: 2-for-5, 2B (1), 3 RBI, BB, 2 K
After being drafted last year, Harber was assigned here. He hit .269/.389/.449 in 23 games with a homer and 19 RBI.
RF Tyler Wilson: 2-for-4, RBI, CS (1), 2 BB, K
LF Dillon Lewis: 2-for-5, 2B (1), R
2B Hans Montero: 1-for-5, 2 K
3B Juan Matheus: 0-for-3, SF, RBI, R, CS (1), BB

LHP Tanner Bauman: 4 IP, 4 H, 1 R, 0 ER, 3 BB, 7 K
A day after Griffin Herring dazzled in his professional debut, Bauman turns in a solid effort in his debut. The 6’5″ 22-year-old was drafted in the 9th round in the 2024 draft.  For Auburn last year, he went 3-2 with a 4.57 ERA in 20 appearances (6 starts) with a 47/16 K/BB over 41.1 IP.
RHP Alex Bustamante: 2 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 4 K
Bustamente spent the entire 2024 season on the injured list.
RHP Cade Austin: 1.2 IP, 5 H, 5 R, 5 ER, 2 BB, 1 K, HR
RHP Chris Veach: 2 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K
This is the professional debut for Veach, who the Yankees signed as an undrafted free agent out of South Carolina. This is the first time I am saying this in 2025: Don’t let an “undrafted” status sour you on a prospect. The draft is shorter nowadays, leaving a lot of talent out there for teams to sign.
RHP Gus Hughes: (W, 1-0)  0.1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 1 K
Hughes’ first professional appearance is a successful one. Drafted in the 18th round in 2024, the High Point graduate stands only 6’0″. Last season, as a starter, he went 6-4 with a 3.77 ERA in 102.2 IP with a 111/41 K/BB. A few High Point players have reached the big leagues, with reliever Cody Allen (Guardians, Angels) being the most successful.

 

FCL (0-0)

Their season starts on May 3rd.

DSL (0-0)

Their season starts in June.

Yankees MILB 4/4: Griffin Herring Dazzles in Debut

Notes:

The Yankees have signed C/OF Cooper Hummel to a minor league deal after he elected free agency yesterday. The Astros outrighted him off their 40-man roster, and he had the right to declare free agency.

While listed as a C/OF, Hummell hasn’t caught at any level since 2023 (96 innings). Offensively, the 30-year-old hasn’t done much with his limited MLB playing time, hitting .159/.255/.275 (51 OPS+) over 235 PA. He has clubbed three homers and driven home 17. If tomorrow’s Immaculate Grid has any combination of Diamondbacks, Mariners, and Astros, remember his name. He has appeared in MLB for all three organizations.

For the Yankees, he is depth.

Scranton (4-3) (Mauled Syracuse, 12-4)

LF Ismael Munguia: 0-for-5, R, SB (1), HBP, 2 K
3B Jorbit Vivas: 3-for-4, HR (1), 3 RBI, 3 R, 2 BB, K
Despite what “scouts” say, the Yankees continue to give Vivas reps at third base. It doesn’t hurt to try, and it would increase his trade value if he impresses.
DH T.J. Rumfield: 3-for-6, 2 RBI
9-for-30 (2 doubles, 2 HR, 7 RBI, 6 R, 3 BB, 5 K). If one continues to hit, they eventually get a chance somewhere.
1B Dominic Smith: 0-for-4, BB, 2 K
RF Jose Rojas: 1-for-4, R, BB, 2 K
  PR-RF Grant Richardson: 0-for-0, SF, RBI, R
C Alex Jackson: 1-for-4, 2 R, 2 BB, 3 K
2B Braden Shewmake: 3-for-4, HR (2), 3 RBI, 2 R, BB
Season: 6-for-24 (2 HR, 4 RBI, 4 R, 6 BB, 6 K). The Railriders are using him at 2B/SS/3B.
SS Andrew Velazquez: 0-for-3, R, SB (4), SAC, BB, 2 K
CF Duke Ellis: 2-for-5, 3 RBI, R, K

RHP Jake Woodford:  3 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 1 BB, 0 K, HR
Woodford’s organizational debut.
RHP Leonardo Pestana: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 2 BB, 3 K
The Yankees have many bullpen options, making a Pestana debut difficult to imagine. However, if he can stay healthy, he could make things interesting. There is talent here.
RHP Ian Hamilton: 0.2 IP, 1 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 1 BB, 1 K
Supposedly, he’ll be back in Detroit?
LHP Ryan Anderson: (W, 1-0)  1 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 2 BB, 2 K
LHP Rob Zastryzny: 1.1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 1 K
RHP Geoff Hartlieb: 1.1 IP, 3 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 1 BB, 1 K
RHP Wilking Rodriguez: 0.2 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 1 K
J.C. Escarra is a great story. Rodriguez would be a good one as well – he hasn’t appeared in MLB in 11 years.  I am going to root for it to happen.

Somerset (0-1) (Lost a heartbreaker to Hartford, 5-4, on a 9th-inning walk-off HR)

3B Jesus Rodriguez: 1-for-4, BB, K
The Yankees added the versatile Rodriguez to the 40-man roster this past winter. Listed as a catcher, he also has minor league experience at 1B/2B/3B/LF. So far in his career, he has hit everywhere they place him. Double-A (where he struggled a bit in 23 games last year) will be his ultimate test.
CF Spencer Jones: 0-for-4, HBP, 2 K
Must I say anything? Jones remains the ultimate boom-bust prospect in a sport where boom-bust prospects are more the norm than the exception. He must show more progress in 2025. The clock has started to tick (Rule 5 eligible this winter).
C Rafael Flores: 1-for-4, SB (1), 2 K
Flores (24) has jumped up on prospect radars. Upon his promotion here in 2024, he hit .274/.359/.519 with 15 home runs in only 65 games. Can he catch long-term or is first base his future calling?  We should expect to hear his name thrown around at the trade deadline if he continues to rake.
1B Dylan Jasso: 1-for-4, R, K
Only 22, Jasso hit 30 doubles in 120 games in 2024.
DH Tyler Hardman: 0-for-3, R, BB, 2 K
RF Cole Gabrielson: 0-for-4, 3 K
LF Garrett Martin: 1-for-3, R, BB
The 24-year-old showed off some HR pop in Hudson Valley last year (12 HR in 87 games). However, he struck out 97 times in 346 PA (28.0%).
2B Alexander Vargas: 1-for-2, 2B (1), R
Vargas had a fun spring, going 8-for-14 with two doubles, three homers, and 7 RBI. While that doesn’t tell us anything, it was a nice story for him. He was once a highly-regarded bonus baby. He is trying to regain some steam.
   2B Max Burt: 0-for-1, SF, RBI, K
SS Jake Gatewood: 2-for-3, 3 RBI, CS (1), BB
Where do the Yankees find these guys? Tonight was his first appearance in affiliated ball since 2022, where he hit .211/.261/.439 in 108 games for the Angels’ Triple-A affiliate in Salt Lake. Last year, he was the Bobby Witt Jr. of the independent Atlantic League. He hit .295/.395/.607 in 506 PA with 34 doubles, 33 HR, and 121 RBI.

RHP Cam Schlittler: 5.2 IP, 3 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 2 BB, 7 K, HR
The Yankees invited Schlittler to spring training. Yes, I think you should read into that – who gets invited vs. who doesn’t can show you where the Yankees currently stand with a prospect (especially those at the upper levels). Can he get to MLB in 2025? It’s not impossible.
RHP Mason Vinyard: 0.2 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 4 BB, 2 K
RHP Jordany Ventura: 1.2 IP, 2 H, 3 R, 2 ER, 2 BB, 2 K
Originally with the Mets organization, Ventura elected free agency this past winter. He is a 24-year-old with experience as a starter and reliever.
RHP Indigo Diaz: (L, 0-1): 0.1 IP, 1 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 1 HR, 0 BB, 0 K

Hudson Valley (0-1) (Lost to Jersey Shore, 3-1)

CF Brendan Jones: 0-for-5, 2 K
The 22-year-old left-handed bat made an immediate impression in his debut 2024 season. In 24 games, he hit .267/.471/.453 with 5 doubles, 3 HR, 19 RBI, 16 R, 29 BB, 21 K, and 18 stolen bases in 18 attempts. He was their 12th round pick out of Kansas State.
SS George Lombard Jr.: 1-for-3, R, BB, K
Spring training certainly raised the hype for the teenager, but let’s calm down for a second. He is still more projection than production. He may not make it to Somerset as a teenager (he turns 20 on 6/2), but we’ll see.
LF Jackson Castillo: 1-for-4, K
In a late-season trial at this level, Castillo thrived (.314/.383/.514 in 21 games). 
RF Jace Avina: 0-for-3, BB, K
Acquired from the Brewers for Jake Bauers, Avina (21) hit .245/.317/.399 in 397 PA at this level in 2024. 
C Omar Martinez: 2-for-4, 2B (1), RBI, SB (1), K
The Yankees had Martinez play a full season at Tampa in 2023 and Hudson Valley in 2024. They decided not to start him at Somerset in 2025. Is there anything to read into that? Nah.
3B Josh Moylan: 0-for-2, 2 BB
1B Coby Morales: 0-for-3, SB (1), HBP, 2 K
DH Antonio Gomez: 1-for-4, 2 K
Once considered (by me and others!) as the top pure catching prospect in the system, Gomez has never put the entire package together. That said, even though it seems he has been here for an eternity, he is only 23, and late-blooming catchers aren’t uncommon. 
2B Jose Colmenares: 0-for-4, K

LHP Kyle Carr: (L, 0-1)  4.2 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 3 BB, 6 K
It’s not the most efficient outing, but it is an effective one. The Yankees aggressively placed Carr at this level in 2024 without any experience anywhere else, and he went 1-8 with a 4.76 ERA over 104 IP (95/55 K/BB). They are hoping that experience translates into better results in 2025.
LHP Geoffrey Gilbert: 1.1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K
After an effective 2023 debut season for Tampa, Gilbert was limited to only five games in 2024. He will hopefully pick up from where he left off.
RHP Matt Keating: 1 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 1 K
RHP Ocean Gabonia: 1 IP, 2 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 1 BB, 1 K
RHP Cole Ayers: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 0 K

Tampa (1-0) (Squeaked past Lakeland, 2-1)

SS Roderick Arias: 0-for-3, R, BB, 2 K
It’s a big season for Arias, who hit .233/.335/.393 with 21 doubles, 8 triples, 13 HR, 74 RBI, 78 R, and 37 stolen bases in 50 attempts at this level last year. When asked how I would describe him, I always say his athletic ability carries him. In other words, he can make up for his shortcomings with his pure athleticism. As you move up the chain, that’s not enough to become MLB-viable. We’ll see how 2025 unfolds.
DH Edgleen Perez: 0-for-2
Full-season league debut for Perez, a catcher who hit .283/.444/.380 in 216 PA for the FCL squad last year. He had more walks (45) than strikeouts (35). We’ll see if he can keep a strong ratio at a more advanced level (don’t expect more BB than K!). As for why he left the game, I am not sure.
   PH-DH Juan Matheus: 1-for-2
The 20-year-old switch-hitter dominated in the FCL last season. At this level, he went 1-for-13 with a pair of stolen bases.
CF Brian Sanchez: 3-for-4, 2B (1), RBI
Also acquired in the Bauers’ deal, Sanchez earned his promotion by hitting .306/.394/.514 with 16 stolen bases in 19 attempts in the FCL last year.
C Engelth Urena: 0-for-3, BB
Only 20, Urena destroyed the FCL (.301/.420/.564 in 162 PA) to earn his spot here in 2025. He’s a fun long-range lottery ticket to follow.
3B Parks Harber: 0-for-4, 3 K
RF Tyler Wilson: 2-for-2, R, SB (1), 2 BB
Last year’s 8th-round pick out of Grand Canyon had a rough start to his professional career, though he did walk 14 times in 92 PA (15.2%). Many players do. It’s all about whether they can bounce back.
LF Dillon Lewis: 0-for-4, SB (1)
2B Austin Green: 0-for-3
1B Josue Gonzalez: 0-for-3, K

LHP Griffin Herring: (W, 1-0) 5.2 IP, 4 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 7 K
The professional debut for the Yankees’ 6th-round pick in the 2024 draft out of LSU. Standing 6’2″, he went 6-1 with a 1.79 ERA and 67/13 K/BB over 50.1 innings last season. He was used primarily from the bullpen (21 of his 22 appearances).
RHP Sean Hermann: 2.1 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 2 BB, 2 K
Hermann, their 14th-round pick in 2021, missed 2024 due to injury.
RHP Brady Kirtner (S, 1): 1 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 1 K
Drafted by the Mets in 2023, Kirtner never made his debut. The Yankees signed him last July, and he finally makes his professional debut tonight. I pay close attention when the Yankees target a random arm sitting on the market.

FCL (0-0)

Their season starts on May 3rd.

DSL (0-0)

Their season starts in June.

Yankees MILB 4/3: Braden Shewmake Homers

Notes:

RHP Jake Woodford, whom the Yankees signed on March 28th, has been assigned to Scranton. To make room, LHP Edgar Barclay was sent down to Somerset.

Woodford is a 28-year-old who pitched in 89 games (25 starts) for the Cardinals between 2020 and 2024. He compiled a 10-13 record with a 4.88 ERA (4.94 FIP; 84 ERA+) over 219.2 innings with a 15.2% K, 7.5% BB, and 45.8% GB. The ground balls likely attracted the Yankees to him, as he does not have overpowering stuff.

Scranton (3-3) (Defeated Syracuse, 5-1)

CF Ismael Munguia: 0-for-5
I mention his 5-game hitting streak, and he puts up a 0-fer. My bad. He is still hitting .360 with a .888 OPS.
3B Jorbit Vivas: 0-for-3, R, BB
1B T.J. Rumfield: 0-for-3, R, K
LF Everson Pereira: 1-for-3, RBI, 2 R, SB (2), BB, K
He finally plays a full game in the field. That is encouraging. He is 6-for-21.
DH Dominic Smith: 0-for-4, 2 K
His debut as a member of the Yankees’ organization (no, I don’t care about spring training)
RF Jose Rojas: 1-for-2, 2B (2), 3 RBI, 2 BB
  PR-RF Duke Ellis: 0-for-0, CS (1)
When your only tool is stealing bases, you don’t want to be caught trying to do it very often!
C Ronaldo Hernandez: 2-for-4, 2B (2)
SS Braden Shewmake: 1-for-4, HR (1), RBI, R, 2 K
Shewmake’s first HR as a member of the Yankees’ organization. He hit 16 in 122 games for Triple-A Gwinnett in 2023.
3B Andrew Velazquez: 0-for-3, BB

LHP Brandon Leibrandt: (W, 1-0)  5 IP, 3 H, 0 R, 2 BB, 5 K
If you are wondering, yes, Leibrandt is the son of former MLB pitcher Charlie Leibrandt.
RHP Kervin Castro: 2 IP, 1 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 0 BB, 2 K, HR
In December 2023, Castro was selected in the minor league phase of the Rule 5 draft. He missed the entire 2024 season due to injury, so this is his Yankees’ organizational debut. He maxed at 94 MPH with his 4-seamer and featured a sweeper/curve/cutter/sinker
RHP Colten Brewer: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 3 K
RHP Yerry De Los Santos: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 0 K

Somerset (0-0)

Their season starts on Friday.

Hudson Valley (0-0)

Their season starts on Friday.

Tampa (0-0)

Their season starts on Friday.

FCL (0-0)

Their season starts on May 3rd.

DSL (0-0)

Their season starts in June.

Yankees MILB 4/2: Ismael Munguia Extends Hitting Streak

Notes:

I have nothing to offer.

Scranton (2-3) (Lost to Syracuse, 5-1, in a sleepy afternoon affair)

CF Ismael Munguia: 1-for-3, BB
He has started the season on a 5-game hitting streak.
DH Everson Pereira: 1-for-4, 2 K
3B Jorbit Vivas: 1-for-4, RBI
Vivas committed two errors, which doesn’t inspire confidence that he can play 3B.
1B T.J. Rumfield: 0-for-3
C Alex Jackson: 0-for-3, K
RF Jose Rojas: 0-for-3, K
2B Andrew Velazquez: 0-for-3, 2 K
SS Braden Shewmake: 0-for-2, BB, K
LF Grant Richardson: 1-for-2, R, BB

RHP Erick Leal (L, 0-1): 5 IP, 5 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 1 BB, 7 K
The 30-year-old Leal has yet to make his MLB debut. Furthermore, this was his first appearance in affiliated ball since 2019.
RHP Ian Hamilton: 1 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 1 BB, 0 K
Hamilton’s second rehab appearance.
RHP Wilking Rodriguez: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 1 K
RHP McKinley Moore: 1 IP, 1 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 3 BB, 0 K

Somerset (0-0)

Their season starts on Friday.

Hudson Valley (0-0)

Their season starts on Friday.

Tampa (0-0)

Their season starts on Friday.

FCL (0-0)

Their season starts on May 3rd.

DSL (0-0)

Their season starts in June.

Yankees MILB 4/1/25: Ismael Munguia Stays Hot

Notes:

Yesterday, the Yankees re-signed Dominic Smith to a minor league deal. The 29-year-old first baseman went 11-for-37 with three homers and 12 RBI in spring training. He should get some 1B/DH at-bats for Scranton.

Scranton (2-2) (Defeated Syracuse, 6-2)

CF Ismael Munguia: 3-for-4, RBI, RS, BB
Munguia’s hot start continues (8-for-17, 2 doubles, 2 RBI, 3 R). He has a pair of 3-hit efforts.
LF Everson Pereira: 0-for-3, 2 K
  LF Duke Ellis: 0-for-1, BB, K
The Yankees continue to limit Pereira, but I doubt it will last much longer.
3B Jorbit Vivas: 0-for-3, CS (1), BB, 2 K
1B T.J. Rumfield: 2-for-3, 2B (2), RBI, 2 R, 2 BB, K
6-for-18 (2 doubles, 2 HR, 5 RBI, 5 R, 3 BB, 4 K)
C Alex Jackson: 0-for-4, R, BB, K
RF Jose Rojas: 2-for-5, 2 R, K
DH Ronaldo Hernandez: 0-for-4, BB, K
2B Andrew Velazquez: 3-for-5, 4 RBI, K
Velasquez comes one short of tying his best for RBI in a game. He is 7-for-16 with three stolen bases.
SS Braden Shewmake: 1-for-5

RHP Zach Messinger: 4 IP, 4 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 1 BB, 2 K
Featuring a 4-pitch mix, Messinger maxed at 93.5 MPH with his 4-seamer. The 25-year-old went 7-8 with a 3.86 ERA in 150 IP for Somerset last year (114 H, 9 HR, 52 BB, 136 K). I thought someone might take a flyer on him in the Rule 5, but he slipped through.
RHP Eric Reyzelman (W, 1-1): 1.2 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 3 K
Reyzelman hit 96.2 MPH today.
RHP Yerry De Los Santos: 1.1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 1 K
LHP Rob Zastryzny: 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K
RHP Geoff Hartlieb: 1 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K

Somerset (0-0)

Their season starts on Friday.

Hudson Valley (0-0)

Their season starts on Friday.

Tampa (0-0)

Their season starts on Friday.

FCL (0-0)

Their season starts on May 3rd.

DSL (0-0)

Their season starts in June.