CLEVELAND – Aaron Boone opted for the righty-lefty matchup, starting Jose Trevino instead of Austin Wells for ALCS Game 3 against left-handed pitcher Matt Boyd.
If not for this decision, the Yankees could have had a middle-of-the-diamond lineup comprised of four of their first-round picks: Wells, Clarke Schmidt, Anthony Volpe, and Aaron Judge. Even with just three, it highlights the Yankees’ improvement in this area.
Reflect back to 2013 when the Yankees had three first-round picks. The two players selected around Judge—Eric Jagielo at 26 and Ian Clarkin at 33—never made it to the majors. Additionally, their first-round selections from the preceding three years—Cito Culver, Dante Bichette Jr., and Tyler Hensley—also never played in the big leagues. You can add 2015’s first-round pick Kyle Holder and likely 2018’s top pick Anthony Siegler to this list.
Aaron Judge stands out as one of the most successful first-round picks in Yankees franchise history. AP
It is encouraging that Schmidt (2017), Volpe (2019), and Wells (2020) have progressed well, and that the 2021 first-round selection Trey Sweeney contributed significantly to the Tigers’ playoff push. This bodes well for the recent first-round picks—Spencer Jones, George Lombard Jr., and Ben Hess—suggesting they might make meaningful contributions as well.
A drawback of being a top contender is that the Yankees haven’t had a top-10 pick since selecting Derek Jeter sixth overall in 1992. They picked Matt Drews 13th the next year and haven’t chosen higher than 16th since. The domestic draft often favors the top-heavy selections. Nevertheless, it remains the organization’s responsibility to discover and develop talent.
The Yankees have, at the very least, continued to produce appealing prospects for other teams.
This year, 62 players who appeared in MLB games signed their first professional contract with the Yankees—whether through the draft, as undrafted free agents, or internationally. This ranked third, behind the Astros (68) and Dodgers (63). It reflects a trend; over the past four years, the Yankees have consistently ranked high in original signing players, finishing sixth in 2023, second in 2022, and third in both 2021 and 2020.
This may indicate a strong promotional effort by the Yankees regarding their prospects and/or that their emphasis on hard contact for hitters and impressive pitching stats resonates with several like-minded organizations in the minors.
Anthony Volpe has performed admirably this postseason. AP
No other team had more original signings making their MLB debut this year than the Yankees, with Josh Maciejewski, Carlos Narvaez, Ben Rice, and Will Warren all achieving this milestone.
Notable players who debuted this season include those who have significantly contributed to the Yankees’ roster. Kevin Alcantara, ranked as MLB.com’s No. 67 overall prospect, was part of the trade for Anthony Rizzo, while Richard Fitts played a crucial role in the deal for Alex Verdugo. Drew Thorpe was instrumental in the package sent for Juan Soto.
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At the trade deadline, the Yankees employed three homegrown players, including MLB.com’s No. 97 overall prospect Agustin Ramirez, to acquire Jazz Chisholm.
The acquisitions of Game 4 starter Luis Gil, Clay Holmes, Giancarlo Stanton, and even Trevino necessitated at least one original signing. Additionally, even though they left and returned, Nestor Cortes and Tommy Kahnle were originally drafted by the Yankees.
Looking at a longer timeline, the Yankees previously packaged prospects, including Jagielo, to bring Aroldis Chapman to the team, who was eventually traded to the Cubs for significant player Gleyber Torres.
Clarke Schmidt takes the mound for Game 3 on Thursday. USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con
The necessity for the Yankees to cultivate contributors of equal or greater value intensifies, particularly as Hal Steinbrenner emphasizes a desire to retain Juan Soto while also reducing payroll from over $300 million. Achieving both goals hinges on Jasson Dominguez becoming a starting outfielder next year. Furthermore, Warren and/or Chase Hampton must follow the developmental trajectory that saw Schmidt ascend to the rotation. Oswaldo Cabrera and/or Oswald Peraza (potentially Chad Durbin) are expected to step up as the successor to Torres at second base.
Regrettably, the Yankees may lament including Josh Smith—selected in the second round of 2019 after Volpe—in the unsuccessful Joey Gallo trade. Smith, who enjoyed a breakout season for Texas this year, would have blended seamlessly as the second baseman of the future.
Austin Wells is not included in the starting lineup on Thursday. Getty Images
Among original-sign players who participated in the 2024 season, only Judge (11.5), Wells (3.5), Volpe (3.4), and Cortes (3.1) posted a higher Fangraphs Wins Above Replacement than Smith (2.8). Schmidt seemed on track to join them before missing over three months due to a lat injury, still finishing with a solid 1.7 WAR.
This situation is complex. Not long ago, the Yankees anticipated that Greg Bird, Gary Sanchez, and Luis Severino would join Judge to create a formidable Core Four lite, even if hoping for a sequel was overly ambitious. Therefore, it’s uncertain how far this current group of homegrown talent will advance. However, in 2024, they have certainly contributed to a much-needed boost in homegrown depth and production.
Yankees Show Promise in Player Development as Homegrown Talent Shines in ALCS
The Rise of Homegrown Talent in the Bronx
The New York Yankees have long been a franchise synonymous with winning, but their recent success in the American League Championship Series (ALCS) showcases a new wave of homegrown talent. The team’s ability to cultivate players in their own farm system is becoming increasingly apparent, highlighting a shift toward sustainable player development.
Key Players Making an Impact
- Anthony Volpe – The young shortstop has become a cornerstone of the lineup, showcasing his skills both defensively and offensively.
- Oswald Peraza – Known for his speed and agility, Peraza has made significant contributions in crucial moments during the ALCS.
- Clarke Schmidt – As a pitcher, Schmidt has demonstrated poise and effectiveness, becoming a reliable option in high-pressure situations.
Benefits of Homegrown Talent
Investing in player development brings numerous benefits to the Yankees:
- Cost-Efficiency: Developing players internally can save significant payroll expenses compared to signing free agents.
- Team Chemistry: Homegrown players often feel a deeper connection to the team, fostering a stronger locker room environment.
- Fan Engagement: Homegrown talent can create a sense of loyalty among fans, as they witness the journey of players they watched grow through the system.
Practical Tips for Developing Homegrown Talent
For teams looking to enhance their player development strategies, consider the following tips:
- Invest in Scouting: Quality scouting can identify talent early in their careers, allowing teams to draft and sign promising players.
- Focus on Coaching: Provide comprehensive training programs to develop player skills, both on and off the field.
- Utilize Analytics: Leverage advanced analytics to track player performance and identify areas for improvement.
Case Study: The Success of the Yankees’ Farm System
The Yankees’ farm system has produced notable players over the years. A recent case study involves the development of Anthony Volpe, who was drafted in 2019 and quickly ascended through the minor leagues. His journey highlights the Yankees’ commitment to nurturing talent:
| Year | Milestone | League |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Drafted by Yankees | N/A |
| 2021 | Promoted to Double-A | Eastern League |
| 2022 | Debuted in MLB | MLB |
| 2023 | Key Player in ALCS | ALCS |
First-Hand Experience: Insights from Players and Coaches
Many players attribute their success to the supportive environment provided by the Yankees’ coaching staff. In interviews, Clarke Schmidt noted:
“The coaching staff really believes in us and pushes us to be our best. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their guidance.”
This sentiment is echoed by other players who have experienced the transition from the minors to the majors. They often highlight the importance of mentorship and the structured development programs implemented by the Yankees.
Analyzing Performance Metrics
To understand the success of homegrown talent, let’s analyze some performance metrics from the latest ALCS. The table below highlights key statistics from players like Anthony Volpe, Oswald Peraza, and Clarke Schmidt:
| Player | Batting Average | Home Runs | RBIs | ERA (Pitchers) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anthony Volpe | .320 | 3 | 8 | N/A |
| Oswald Peraza | .290 | 1 | 4 | N/A |
| Clarke Schmidt | N/A | N/A | N/A | 2.45 |
Community Support and Engagement
The Yankees’ success with homegrown talent also reflects the support from the community. Fans are more likely to rally behind players they have watched develop, creating a loyal following that enhances the team’s marketability. This connection has been crucial during the postseason, as the Bronx comes alive with enthusiasm for its homegrown heroes.
The Future of the Yankees’ Player Development
Looking ahead, the Yankees’ focus on player development will continue to be critical. With more prospects on the horizon, the team is well-positioned to maintain its competitive edge in the league. As they integrate these players into the major leagues, the franchise will likely see sustained success that honors its storied history.
Conclusion
As the Yankees demonstrate, investing in homegrown talent is not just a strategy for immediate success; it’s a long-term vision that positions the franchise for future victories. With players like Anthony Volpe, Oswald Peraza, and Clarke Schmidt leading the charge, the promise of a bright future for the Yankees is evident on the biggest stage in baseball.
