Look at Me
No player took more advantage of his opportunity to play in front of the Yankees manager than Carroll, who already had impressive numbers. Last season Cody struck out 89 batters in 69 IP, while walking only 30, which helped him put up a 2.54 ERA for the year.
Even those numbers, however, would leave a pitcher who had only half a season at Double-A too far down the depth chart.
But, after catching Boone’s eye, if he continues to strike batters out at such a high rate now at Triple-A, Carroll will be called up as a reliever to let other projected starters stay in their minor-league rotations.
This from the be-stubbled Brendan Kuty at NJ.com back in February:
"Unprompted, Yankees manager Aaron Boone singled out a pitcher he thought looked good on Monday. “Especially Caroll at the end there,” Boone said. “Even though he gave up the home run, I thought that getting in there the first time, he looked really good to me. I actually thought he had the [called third strike] in that last inning, but he didn’t get the call.” He has touched triple digits with his fastball. He turned heads in the Arizona Fall League, throwing 11 2/3 scoreless innings while striking out 18."
Cody will have to be added to the 40-man to be called up, but the two moves would work together anyway. The only reason the Yanks would need another arm is if a player such as Chasen Shreve failed to perform. In that case, Shreve would be cut from the team and the roster, leaving an opening for Carroll.
All About the Roster
The only other name of interest is Albert Abreu. He seems too inexperienced, having never pitched above A-Ball, but his place on the 40-man might necessitate an emergency call-up.
And that is the entire list of all the minor league players who will significantly impact the club this year.
Oh my. While that statement might end up as the truth, I cannot encourage the readers enough to colour their expectations. In his defence, Mr. Claus is often correct but, as much as it pains me to say so, just as often incorrect. I suggest we all proceed with caution.
Now on the topic du jour: How much, if at all, will Greg Bird play for the Yankees in 2018?