Quick Hit: Prospects That Could Change the System

The New York Yankees had a good season overall in 2015 both on the field in the Bronx and across their various systems down in their farm system. Pulaski made the playoffs in their inaugural season and Staten Island won their division while players like Jorge Mateo, Gary Sanchez and others made huge strides. Domingo Acevedo became a household name in many Yankees households and Wilkerman Garcia is on the outside looking in at many of those same households. Who fits that mold entering the 2016 season?

Jorge Mateo made the list last season and he makes the list again this season. Mateo has dominated the short season leagues in the minor leagues but what about the full season leagues and affiliates? How will Mateo hold up when he reaches Double-A Trenton and how will he hold up when he reaches Triple-A and potentially the Major Leagues? If he proves he can hold up over the course of a full season, a real full season, he will be the #1 prospect hands down maybe not only for the Yankees but possibly in the major leagues. Yeah, I said it.

The combination of Ben Gamel, Slade Heathcott and Mason Williams are all on the 40 man roster and are all primed to make a big impact on the big league Yankees if and when an injury occurs. All three have had issues staying healthy in their own terms but all could be breakout candidates in 2016 as well.

The final piece is James Kaprielian. The Yankees have shown they can turn "failed" starters into great relief pitchers and the team has shown, especially recently, that they can produce positional players. The team is loaded down with catchers, shortstops and outfielders but one thing the team lacks is starting pitching. Sure they brought Luis Severino through the system but he was an International signing, Kaprielian was drafted and came through the system. If he can reach the majors and do well it may be the turnaround for the Yankees system as far as perception goes.