New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone just raised some red flags without even realizing it when discussing a top prospect.
The New York Yankees have a handful of impressive prospects competing in Spring Training this year, and while outfielder Spencer Jones has stolen the show with a dazzling power display, he is far from the only impressive youngster.
Top pitching prospect Carlos Lagrange has certainly opened some eyes thus far, striking out six batters while allowing just one run on two hits — one of which was a home run — in 5.2 innings of work.
Lagrange hit 102 mph with his fastball on Friday and also features a nasty changeup that had hitters buckling.
The 22-year-old has been tabbed as a potential frontline starter for the Yankees, but is it possible New York has envisioned a different role for him?
When discussing Lagrange after Friday's outing, Yankees manager Aaron Boone offered an intriguing comparison for the flamethrower: Dellin Betances.
"I think back to when Dellin was at his best," Boone told reporters. "Dellin was taller and even a little different, but when he was on, you’d just see some consistently really bad swings against him. So I think Carlos has a very bright future."
It's certainly not a bad thing to be compared to Betances. The right-hander was filthy during his time in the Bronx, averaging 14.6 strikeouts per nine innings and establishing himself as one of the top relievers in baseball.
New York Yankees pitcher Carlos Lagrange. Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images.But did you catch the key word in there?
Betances was a relief pitcher. He was initially hailed a a starter in New York's minor-league system, but was converted when it became clear his stuff was better suited for the bullpen.
Could Lagrange be dealt the same fate?
This certainly wouldn't be the first time we have heard Lagrange floated as a relief possibility. He definitely has closer stuff. There is no question about it. However, his shaky command might not lend well to a bullpen role.
And let's face it: a relief pitching prospect is absolutely not as exciting as one that could potentially headline your starting rotation.
It's clear that the Yankees feel Lagrange has a bright future, and based on his performance in Spring Training, how can you not feel that way?
But you do have to wonder what Lagrange's role with the team will actually be.
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