The New York Yankees have managed to strike gold in several career average players this season, who have helped them succeed beyond a point that most thought was improbable after their starting pitching rotation succumbed to injury. The players that have risen to the occasion have helped the Yankees keep their excellent prospects in the minor-league system and developing. Being forced to pull up young options is never ideal, and they can continue to help their youth progress without interruption in their confidence.
As for 21-year-old centerfielder, Estevan Florial, the challenges of moving up in the minor-league system have begun to hold him back. As of Friday, Florial had played just 143 games over the last two seasons. A broken wrist in 2018 and 2019 limited him exponentially.
The New York Yankees need to unlock Estevan Florial’s potential:
The young outfielder has a unique blend of speed, power, arm strength, and athleticism that makes his ceiling extremely high. Avoiding injuries and getting him consistent at-bats and playing time is essential in his growth and development. However, two broken wrists have set him back the past two seasons, and he is once again facing an uphill battle to return to form.
High-A Tampa Bay head coach Aaron Holbert stated in regards to Florial:
“Just a matter of staying healthy and being able to get his everyday at-bats to put his complete game together so he can show what he can do on a consistent basis,†Holbert said of Florial.
This season, Estevan is hitting just .235 with seven home runs, 33 RBIs, eight stolen bases and .688 OPS with Tampa. He has struck out 81 times in 221 at-bats.
“I know he’s got some swing-and-miss right now but I think he has a lot of development left to do,†said Holbert.
There is plenty of time for him to find his groove and begin to dominate at the level in which he’s capable of. For now, all we can do is wait and keep an eye on the top prospect.