MLB 2015 Draft Results: New York Yankees Select James Kaprielian With 16th Overall Pick

Tonight is a big night for the New York Yankees Organization. With two first round picks and their highest pick in 22 years, the Yankees have a golden opportunity to help add more talent to an improving farm system. The Yankees took UCLA right-hander James Kaprielian with the 16th overall selection.

Kaprielian was the ace of UCLA’s staff this season, as was a part of UCLA’s first ever no-hitter this season. Kaprielian was a reliever when he was a freshman as a part of UCLA’s championship squad.

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Kaprielian has a chance to be a quick comer to the big leagues. He struck out 114 in 106.2 innings and just walked 33. He hits 92 MPH on the gun and has good control of it along with a curve and a change-up.

Kaprielian also controls the running game, allowing just two stolen bases all season long.

Staff writer Ricky Keeler caught up with Nathan Eberhardt over at Go Joe Bruin here for more info on the newest Yankee right-hander.

He started in UCLA’s win against Cal. St Bakersfield, striking out six and giving up two runs over seven innings and even pitched in relief on three days rest in their elimination game against Maryland a week ago.

Kaprielian was previously drafted in the 40th round by the Seattle Mariners in 2012 but decided to go to UCLA. He was MLB.com’s 22nd overall prospect.

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