After shipping out a significant number of pitchers this offseason in exchange for Alex Verdugo, Juan Soto and Trent Grisham, the New York Yankees are now trying to pick up the pieces.
General manager Brian Cashman is exploring the free agent market and trade world for additional acquisitions. He may have no choice but to spend big on Jordan Montgomery or trade for a starter like Shane Bieber from the Cleveland Guardians. Ideally, the Yankees shouldn’t trade a significant number of prospects for a starter like Corbin Burnes or Dylan Cease, but it could be beneficial to tap into something unlikely to make the roster. Floating Everson Pereira as a mobile prospect could help the Yankees’ pitching need, especially since they prefer position players at this point. But they should also count on several young people to make the transition. In particular, Will Warren should have the opportunity to not only crack the bullpen, but also secure a back rotation slot. Warren is 24 years old and posted a 3.61 ERA in 99.2 innings in Triple-A last season. He has a good repertoire of pitches and his potential is real.However, 22-year-old Chase Hampton is two years younger and is also trying to make his MLB debut. Hampton pitched 59.2 innings in Double-A last season, posting a 4.37 ERA, 10.26 strikeouts per nine, including a 65.8 percent left-on-base rate and walk-on rate. 32.9 %soil. Hampton is now considered the best hope of the Yankees after Drew Thorpe has been exchanged for the paadres. Don’t let his ERA discourage you. Hampton has great things that could well translate into bombers. Its rapid ball reaches an average of 91 to 95 MPH but has high rotation rates, a good range and an arm side race. He generates a significant number of swings and misses with his curveball and slider, giving him an enticing mix of pitches. Not to mention the annoying changeup of him blowing hitters away. He could end up in the bullpen if the Yankees need relief in 2024, but he looks like a starter and they’re just waiting for him to reach his potential.Hampton moved up to Double-A, perhaps the toughest minor league level, just two months into his professional career. With a strong performance and dynamic release, Hampton should not be overlooked as an impact player next season, if not in 2025, when the Yankees could use him as their primary starter. Share:
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