After using two selections on right-handed pitchers to begin the MLB Draft, the New York Yankees doubled down on that effort.
As Day 2 of the draft commenced Monday afternoon, the Yankees wound up taking another five pitchers with their next seven picks in Rounds 3-10.
One of them was right-handed pitcher Greysen Carter out of Vanderbilt, who was selected with the No. 152 overall pick in the fifth round.
MORE: Every pick Yankees made on Day 2 of MLB Draft
MLB analyst Sam Dykstra believes it was one of the most intriguing selections on Day 2.
New York continues to load up on pitching with its fifth straight arm at the top of the Draft. 103. That’s the number many will know on Carter. It’s what he’s capable of touching in terms of fastball velo, and he’ll typically sit 96-99 mph with explosive life up in the zone. His curveball, slider and changeup all need work, as does his control, but the Yanks will hope to work around the plus-plus heater.
In the age of power pitchers, Carter certainly fits the bill. At 6-foot-5 and 237 pounds, Carter is a 21-year-old righty who spent three seasons in Nashville.
His numbers leave much to be desired so this is definitely a bet on developing his traits. Carter posted a 5.62 career ERA in 36 games (11 starts) at Vanderbilt. He threw 73.2 career innings, logging 67 strikeouts and 69 walks with a 1.72 WHIP.
He did show some promise during 2023 summer in the Cape Cod league when he posted a 1.88 ERA in 14.1 innings. He struck out 14 batters but still walked nine.
Solely living off his fastball won't get him to the MLB level, but it's certainly a strong starting point. The Yankees development system will be vital in Carter's professional journey.
