Ian Kennedy
The Yankees took Ian Kennedy in the first round of the draft today.
He’s a small-ish RHP – bit of a bulldog. MLB.com says he’s lost a tad off his fastball this past season. Here’s more on the kid from the L.A. Times -
Ian Kennedy, USC, right-handed pitcher, junior: Once expected to be a shoo-in for the first round, Kennedy’s stock took a hit during a season in which his velocity was erratic and his performance (5-7, 3.90 ERA) failed to meet expectations. One scout said the 6-1, 195-pounder may have put too much pressure on himself to excel, especially as the losses mounted during a disappointing season for the Trojans. Nonetheless, Kennedy’s past accomplishments and potential still could prompt a team to take him as high as late in the first round.
Considering that the Yankees have most of their position players locked up for a few years, it probably makes sense going for a pitcher – especially since this draft has very few position prospects.
There was talk of Kennedy going 1st overall before the season, but he didn’t haeev as great a season as most expected.
Safe pick, he won’t make Cashman and the rest of the braintrust look like morons.
Good, he’s not a high school pitcher.
“erratic velocity” is a term I haven’t heard before, but might it be cured by having a good strength and endurance regimen? Or is it mechanical — fixed by a good pitching coach.
I think better consistency with mechanics can cure the erratic part.
And that’s what the low minors are for.
Ugh! And his “advisor” is Scott Bor-ass.