New York Yankees injured ace Gerrit Cole had nothing but praise for one of the team’s most promising pitching prospects. Despite being sidelined with a hamstring injury, Cole took the time to share his thoughts on the young pitcher who has been making waves in the minor leagues.
Cole, who is known for his dominant pitching and fierce competitiveness, had high words of praise for the prospect, saying, “He’s got all the tools to be a great pitcher in this league. I’ve been keeping an eye on him and I’m really impressed with what I’ve seen so far.”
The prospect in question is none other than 22-year-old right-hander, Deivi Garcia. Standing at just 5’9″, Garcia may not have the imposing physical presence of some of his teammates, but what he lacks in size, he makes up for in talent and determination.
Garcia was signed by the Yankees as an international free agent in 2015 and has been steadily rising through the ranks of the minor league system. In 2019, he made his debut with the Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders and quickly caught the attention of the organization with his impressive performances.
In his first full season with the RailRiders, Garcia has continued to impress, posting a 3.86 ERA with 33 strikeouts in just 23.1 innings pitched. His fastball, which can reach up to 97 mph, combined with his sharp breaking ball and changeup, make him a formidable opponent on the mound.
But it’s not just his physical abilities that have caught the eye of his teammates and coaches. It’s his work ethic and determination that have set him apart from other prospects. Despite being one of the youngest players on the team, Garcia has shown a maturity and focus beyond his years.
“He’s always asking questions and trying to learn from the veterans on the team,” Cole shared. “He’s not afraid to put in the extra work and it’s paying off for him.”
Garcia’s dedication to his craft has not gone unnoticed by the coaching staff either. Yankees pitching coach, Matt Blake, has been impressed with the young pitcher’s progress and believes he has a bright future ahead of him.
“He’s got a great feel for pitching and he’s always looking to improve,” Blake said. “He’s got a great work ethic and a hunger to succeed, which is exactly what you want to see in a young player.”
With the Yankees currently dealing with a number of injuries to their pitching staff, Garcia’s name has been thrown around as a potential call-up to the major leagues. While nothing has been confirmed, Cole believes that Garcia has what it takes to succeed at the highest level.
“He’s got the talent and the mindset to be successful in the big leagues,” Cole said. “I have no doubt that he will make a name for himself in this organization.”
For Garcia, hearing such high praise from one of the team’s top pitchers is both humbling and motivating. He knows that he still has a lot to learn and improve upon, but he is determined to continue working hard and making the most of every opportunity that comes his way.
“I’m grateful for the support and encouragement from my teammates and coaches,” Garcia said. “I’m just focused on getting better every day and helping the team in any way I can.”
As the Yankees continue to navigate through a challenging season, the emergence of young talent like Deivi Garcia is a promising sign for the future. With the guidance and support of veterans like Gerrit Cole, Garcia and other prospects have a bright future ahead of them in the storied franchise of the New York Yankees.
