Carlos Lagrange, the New York Yankees' top pitching prospect, impressed in spring training before being sent to minor league camp on Thursday. The right-hander's triple-digit fastball and strong secondary pitches drew praise from veterans and manager Aaron Boone. Despite the reassignment, Boone indicated Lagrange could impact the major league team soon.
In Tampa, Fla., Carlos Lagrange turned heads during Yankees spring training with his powerful pitching. The 6-foot-7, 248-pound right-hander, ranked as the Yankees' No. 2 prospect and No. 79 overall by MLB Pipeline, posted a 0.66 ERA over 13 2/3 innings. He allowed six hits, four walks, and 13 strikeouts, with his only run coming from a solo homer by the Tigers' Corey Julks on Feb. 21. On Wednesday, Lagrange threw four scoreless innings in relief of Gerrit Cole against the Red Sox, sparking debate about breaking camp with the major league team. Manager Aaron Boone noted the difficulty of the decision, saying, “He made it a difficult decision. Coming into this, I wouldn’t have even thought there was a decision. He’s definitely got everyone’s attention. I love where he’s at. I would not be surprised if he is impacting us early, middle, later part of the season.” Boone praised Lagrange's work ethic, confidence, adaptability, coachability, and competitiveness. Lagrange, speaking through interpreter Marlon Abreu, said, “Attacking the zone, being able to execute with two strikes more consistently, staying calm on the mound regardless of the situation. I think doing that gives me a good idea that I’m ready to compete.” Teammates shared the enthusiasm. Gerrit Cole remarked earlier, “It’s like, silly. I’ve never seen anything like it.” Catcher Austin Wells added after Wednesday, “I don’t have any doubts he could help us right now.” Max Fried said, “I’ve never seen velocity like that, consistently and doing it over a bunch of innings. He works really hard... He’ll definitely impact this team.” The Yankees view Lagrange as a starter and expect him possibly at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre after last season's 7-6 record and 3.22 ERA in Double-A Somerset.