New York Yankees Sign Top 2016 Draft Pick Blake Rutherford

The New York Yankees have signed their first round pick of the 2016 amateur draft, high school outfielder Blake Rutherford.

Blake Rutherford was expected to command a well over-slot bonus when he slipped to the New York Yankees with the 18th pick of the 2016 amateur draft, and he certainly wasn’t disappointed. Jim Callis of MLB.com reports Rutherford has agreed to sign with the Yankees for a $3.282 million bonus, well above the $2.441 million slot for his draft position.

The 19-year-old Rutherford is the first high school player New York has selected in the first round since Ty Hensley in 2012 and the first HS outfielder since Slade Heathcott in 2009. A centerfielder for Chaminade Prep in West Hills, California, Rutherford is seen as a better fit in right as a professional. His athletic 6’3 195 lb. frame is a scout’s dream, with an enticing combination of power potential and speed. In addition, he has had success against the best prep competition in the country, playing for the Team USA 18U National Team in 2015, as well as a number of top showcases.

With Rutherford locked in, the Yankees have now signed all of their picks from the first ten rounds this season. An incredible talent with no real holes in his game, Rutherford is immediately in the discussion of the Yankees’ top prospects along with Jorge Mateo, Aaron Judge, Gary Sanchez, and James Kaprielian. The Yankees have had very little success with their first round picks in recent years, but Rutherford looks like a very good bet to break that streak.

Here’s a look at Blake Rutherford signing his first professional contract from his personal Twitter account:

Next: New York Yankees Sign Third Round Pick Nolan Martinez