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Five Yankees Prospects Who Could Make an Impact in 2017

By Brendan Smith

Jul 10, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; USA outfielder Clint Frazier hits a RBI double in the third inning during the All Star Game futures baseball game at PetCo Park. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 10, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; USA outfielder Clint Frazier hits a RBI double in the third inning during the All Star Game futures baseball game at PetCo Park. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 30, 2016; Lake Buena Vista, FL, USA; New York Yankees center fielder Dustin Fowler (95) rounds second base for a triple during the eighth inning of a spring training baseball game against the Atlanta Braves at Champion Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 30, 2016; Lake Buena Vista, FL, USA; New York Yankees center fielder Dustin Fowler (95) rounds second base for a triple during the eighth inning of a spring training baseball game against the Atlanta Braves at Champion Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports /

Dustin Fowler

An under-the-radar prospect, Fowler exploded at Double-A Trenton in 2016, hitting .281 with 12 homeruns, 88 RBI and 25 steals in 132 games. Fowler set career highs in homers, RBI, games played and hits for the Thunder, helping to cement his status as a top-15 prospect in the Yankees system.

Fowler’s best tools are his glove and his speed. As a left-handed hitter, Fowler would be a good addition to the Yankees bench. With Aaron Hicks more than likely returning in 2017, Fowler will be sent back to the minors for more seasoning. Fowler was drafted in the 18th round of the 2012 draft, and was signed for $278,000 in order to forgo his commitment to Georgia Southern.

Fowler has played mainly center field during his professional career, and his above-average speed and defense will allow him to stay in center field once he debuts for the Yankees. With Jacoby Ellsbury signed through 2020, Fowler is clearly blocked in the Bronx, making him an interesting trade candidate.

With Ellsbury due over $84 million over the next 4 years, and about to enter his age 33 season, trading Fowler would be a lot easier than trading Ellsbury. What could be expected in return for Fowler? Hopefully, starting pitching depth and/or another reliever. You can never have enough relievers if you are Joe Girardi.

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