By Christopher Saunders
When the New York Yankees dangled closer Andrew Miller at this year’s trade deadline and made it very clear they wanted a legit top three prospect in return for miller services.
When they dealt him to the Cleveland Indians, they got just what they wanted in acquiring outfielder Clint Frazier.
He truly lives up to the billing of “hyped up” prospect with scouts saying, “He definitely has power, a middle-of-the-order threat who is going to play well in that park for sure,” and “this is one of the quickest bat speeds I have ever seen.”
When he was with the Indians organization, he was their #2 prospect, behind Bradley Zimmer, another popular name.
He’s obviously been hit hard by the transition from Double-A to Triple-A, as he was a .276 hitter with Double-A Akron.
New York Yankees’ Clint Frazier finds groove with Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders | MiLB.com News
However, in 101 at-bat’s with Triple-A Scranton Wilkes/Barre this season, he’s hit a measly .228, with just three home runs and seven RBI’s.
Certainly these aren’t the most encouraging statistics, but the Yankees knew he wouldn’t produce immediately upon his promotion to Triple-A.
People should also remember that before the trade with Triple-A Columbus, he saw just 21 at-bat’s, reaching base just six times in that span.
While GM Brian Cashman has called his bat speed “legendary”, it’s quite clear that Frazier still needs more seasoning in the minor leagues.
It’s obvious that Cashman would like to have him up in the Bronx at some point next season, but it seems a bit of a stretch to say he could be in the Opening Day lineup.
One obstacle in Frazier’s way is current incumbent, Brett Gardner The 33-year-old’s name has been floated in trade rumors for almost three years now, but there have been no takers. Unless Gardner is traded or injured, he will remain the starter.
Comments: Twitter- @_SmokeSaunders, Facebook- Chris Saunders, Instagram- _smokesaunders, Email Chrisweather16@yahoo.com
Follow Us