Around the DSL: Week Three is in the Books

Mandatory Credit: dominicansummerleagues.com

The Dominican Baby Bombers are providing a glimpse of hope for the future of the Yankees’ farm system. While many of these youngsters are still a few years away from significant playing time, both Dominican Summer League Yankees’ squad are performing at high levels. Let’s take a look at where each team stands after their first three weeks of the season as we go Around the DSL.

DOMINICAN SUMMER LEAGUE: BOCA CHICA SOUTH

The DSL Yankees 1 team sits in first place at the conclusion of week three. A solid 5-2 week leaves them all alone atop the BCS with a 14-6 record. 18-year-old righty Moises Cedeno closed the week with a loss, but has been a solid anchor to the starting rotation. Cedeno sits at 1-1 over four starts, with a 1.37 ERA, and 19 strikeouts through 19.2 innings pitched. His 19-year-old right-handed counterpart, Raudy Guzman has been equally impressive. After his first four starts, Guzman sits at 2-0, with a 0.90 ERA, and 23 strikeouts over 20 innings, with an astounding one walk allowed. Left fielder Pedro Urena continues to be the MVP of the DSL Yankees 1. Through 17 games, the 19-year-old is batting .372, with three home runs and 12 RBI. 18-year-old second baseman, Welfrin Mateo, continues his scorching hot start. Mateo is now batting .345 with two home runs and six RBI while getting on base at a .438 clip.

DOMINICAN SUMMER LEAGUE BOCA CHICA NORTH

The second Yankees’ DSL squad is having an equally successful season thus far. A 4-3 week puts the DSL Yankees 2 at 13-7, which leaves them in third place at 3 1/2 games out of first place. Center/left fielder Andy Diaz continues to pace the offense. The 19-year-old native of the Domincan Republic is now batting .379 in his first 15 games. He has two home runs, 17 runs scored, and 18 RBI, but more impressive are his 42 total bases in 58 at-bats. He is currently amid a six-game hit streak. Outfielder Cesar Diaz also remains hot. The 21-year-old is batting .319, with a home run and 15 RBI. SS Yonauris Rodriguez is also having a great start. He is now batting .343, with a home run and 17 RBI. The starting pitching has left a little to be desired. 20-year-old Abel Duarte anchors the staff, although he remains winless. He does have a 3.00 ERA, and 12 strikeouts over his four starts. 19-year-old Freddery Arias has been lights-out from the bullpen. He has nine strikeouts over 9.2 innings pitched, with two saves and a 1.86 ERA.