Where Are they Now? 2007 Yankees Prospects Recap

Written by Greg Fertel | 13 August 2010

Over the past few weeks, I've reviewed Baseball America's 2007 Top 30 Yankee Prospects in three parts:

Here are some observations:

The Yankee farm system was actually ranked pretty highly at this point, but it wasn't because of the system's depth. It was very top-heavy, the top 6 of Phil Hughes, Jose Tabata, Humberto Sanchez, Dellin Betances, Joba Chamberlain, and Ian Kennedy included some very high ceiling talents. The rest of the top ten included two relief pitchers, showing that the talent tapered off after these six. Six of these top ten prospects now have solid roles in the major leagues.

Overall, 12 of the Yankees top 30 prospects from 2007 are currently in the majors. However, there are seven others who have appeared in major league games and others, like Jesus Montero, who are knocking on the door. Baseball America apparently did a very good job with this list. Over 20 out of the Yankees top 30 2007 prospects will have played in the majors at some point in another.

Phil Hughes, Joba Chamberlain, and Brett Gardner are the only players on this list who are actively contributing to the Yankees this season.

With a rough count, I nine players on the list who were traded. Some of them were in blockbuster deals, like Austin Jackson, but others were just dealt after they were designated for assignment, like Chase Wright.

I count four players(all pitchers) whose careers were totally derailed by injuries. This is why some people say TINSTAAPP(There is no such thing as a pitching prospect). Hitters are generally safer bets, which is why having a top prospect like Jesus Montero is so valuable.