New York Yankees Have a Keeper in Billy Fleming
By David Hill
Undrafted free agents, even after they sign with a team, can still face an uphill battle. There just is not that same investment in the player, as they were essentially plucked off the scrap heap. While some of those players can go on to make an impact, they need to truly stand out in order to do so. Thus far, that has not been an issue for the New York Yankees Billy Fleming.
Fleming, who was an undrafted free agent following the 2014 MLB Amateur Draft, has certainly impressed for the Yankees this season. Originally slated to start in the short season Appalachian League, Fleming has rocketed through the Yankees system. Over the past month and a half, Fleming has risen through four levels, reaching the AA Trenton Thunder.
Overall, in his 35 games, Fleming has produced a .368/.435/.518 batting line with two home runs and eleven doubles. In his 131 plate appearances, he has struck out only 16 times while drawing twelve walks. Fleming has also displayed impressive defensive versatility, appearing in at least seven games at first, second and third.
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Naturally, when seeing these types of numbers, it is easy to look for a way to explain them as a fluke. Yet, Fleming has hit well at each stop along the way. Even his worst batting line, a .292/.320/.333 batting line in the seven games that Fleming spent with the Charleston RiverDogs, is still solid. Even though Fleming does not have much in the way of power, likely being more of a doubles hitter, he has been able to use his excellent batting eye and bat control to get on base and spray the ball around the yard.
Described as a gritty player, Fleming appears to be the type that may not seem overly impressive at first, but will carve out a spot through sheer determination and a willingness to do whatever is necessary. His versatility with the glove certainly helps, as Fleming may be able to progress into a super utility role going forward, especially if he is given the opportunity to learn the outfield.
Players like Billy Fleming may not excite when one sees them, and they can often fly under the radar. However, when given the opportunity, they have the sheer determination and willpower to make the most of it. The New York Yankees may not have had high expectations for Fleming, but he has certainly forced his way onto their radar.