Top 10

Steve over at WW has a list up that highlights the Yankees Top 10 prospects, according to the beloved, Baseball America. Here’s the somewhat surprising list.

1. Austin Jackson OF
2. Jesus Montero, C
3. Andrew Brackman, RHP
4. Austin Romine, C
5. Dellin Betances, RHP
6. Zach McAllister, RHP
7. Alfredo Aceves, RHP
8. Phil Coke, LHP
9. Mark Melancon, RHP
10. Bradley Suttle, 3B

I altered Steve’s post a bit (I hope he doesn’t mind), so now you can click on each name and see their respective minor league numbers (Hawaiian League numbers, whatever).

To me, the only thing that’s truly interesting is that the 2 best prospects are position players. I mean, it’s no secret that Jackson and Montero are talented, but it’s just funny when you reflect on the amount of pitchers the Yankees have been drafting over the years. Brackman’s position is also noticeable, especially since he hasn’t done anything at the minor league level yet (he’s pitching in Hawaii right now). He does have tremendous upside and that’s definitely taken into account here.

Also, I do think it’s cool that Alfredo Aceves is in there. He’s not really a “rookie” in the purest sense of the word (Mexican League veteran), and he is older than most of the others on the list (he’s 25), but he seems like he knows how to pitch. I thought Melancon would be before him, however, they’re both the same age and Aceves could be a starter, which may have helped his position (versatility?).