Most MLB experts agree that the New York Yankees have one of the best-stocked minor league systems — and you can count former general manager Jim Bowden, writing for The Athletic, among them.
Of course, there has been debate about just how good the Yankees’ top prospects are, with nitpickers saying Anthony Volpe’s defense is only adequate, citing Jasson Dominguez’s age, which makes him difficult to project, and wondering about Oswald Peraza’s actual value as a big leaguer or a trade toss-in.
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Bowden recently released his Top 50 MLB prospects, and those three Yankees minor-leaguers appeared on the list. Conspicuously absent: catcher Austin Wells and outfielder Everson Periera.
Here’s what Bowden says:
Anthony Volpe, shortstop, No. 13
Volpe has the physical tools — not to mention the baseball IQ, instincts and intelligence — to become an All-Star caliber player. He’s an average defender at shortstop but can make all of the routine plays thanks to his footwork and quick release. He’s going to hit and hit with power. I think he profiles as a .350 on-base-percentage player with 25-home run power and 30-stolen base potential.
Jason Dominguez, outfielder, No. 12
Domínguez has worked hard this past year, losing weight, gaining strength and learning the English language. He has impressed the Yankees with his work ethic and desire to improve. He can play all three outfield positions but will end up in one of the outfield corners. He’s only 19 but has already played in the Futures Game twice.
Oswald Peraza, shortstop/second base, No. 32
The Yankees rank Peraza below their other top shortstop prospect, Volpe, and were willing to put him in a Luis Castillo trade with Cincinnati at the deadline. But Peraza, who generates special exit velocity and loud sweet-spot contact, stayed put. He’s a very toolsy middle infielder with soft hands and a cannon for an arm. He’s exciting on the base paths as well (31 steals in 34 attempts this season).
Baseball America ranks the Yankees’ top five prospects in this order: Volpe, Peraza, Periera, Wells and Dominguez.
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