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The New York Yankees face a pressing need for pitching depth in the upcoming season, and they received promising news regarding one of their Minor League prospects, Yoendrys Gomez. Gomez, who debuted last season with a two-inning performance against the Toronto Blue Jays in September, secured a fourth MiLB (Minor League Baseball) option. This allows the team to assign him to Triple-A without exposing him to waivers, a critical advantage for preserving their pitching depth.

Although seemingly minor, this development significantly impacts their rotation, currently facing significant depletion.

While not the top prospect in the organization, Gomez, a 24-year-old right-hander, possesses promising attributes. His low slot four-seamer and effective secondary pitches make him a high-upside arm capable of generating swings and misses. Despite recovering from an early-season injury, Gomez showcased potential, maintaining a 3.58 ERA and striking out 78 batters in 19 starts last season. However, his high walk rate (13.5%) remains a concern, although his skill set suggests potential for stretching out as the Yankees consider using him for spot starts in 2024.

Gomez, part of the organization since 2017, boasts a fastball averaging 93-95 mph, delivering 17-18 inches of vertical carry. His unique lower-slot release creates deception in the strike zone, featuring a cut-ride fastball with horizontal movement closer to the zero-line. Additionally, his repertoire includes a proficient sweeping slider for right-handed batters and a cutter for lefties. Yet, concerns persist regarding his command and consistency due to recurring injury-related setbacks, hindering his ability to sustain performance and pitch extended innings.

The Yankees continue to grapple with pitching depth challenges, monitoring options like Jordan Montgomery and Blake Snell, both potentially seeking substantial contracts. Montgomery eyes surpassing Aaron Nola’s $172 million deal, raising doubts about a reunion with the Yankees. Snell, the 2023 NL Cy Young recipient, seeks win-now teams, potentially attracting suitors like the Phillies, who might offer high AAV (Average Annual Value) short-term deals. Trade targets such as Edward Cabrera or Shane Bieber offer alternatives for bolstering the roster, with the prospect of acquiring an ace like Corbin Burnes always appealing.

Despite these challenges, having the opportunity to extend Yoendrys Gomez as a starter early in the season, thanks to his fourth option, enhances the team’s rotational depth.