Yankees' Slider Star Faces Rule 5 Draft Danger

The Ticking Clock: Rule 5 Draft Insights

The Rule 5 Draft is around the corner, and it's not just a procedure—it's a strategic chess match. This offseason milestone allows teams like the New York Yankees an opportunity to enhance their rosters or risk losing valuable prospects. Major League Baseball's Rule 5 Draft presents an exciting, yet nerve-wracking, phase where teams must weigh their options.

Protecting the Assets: Who's Safe?

With their 40-man roster dynamics in focus, the Yankees have already taken necessary precautions. Earlier this month, they protected three critical farmhands including right-handed pitchers Elmer Rodríguez and Chase Hampton along with outfielder Spencer Jones. However, the team's fans might want to pay closer attention to what's brewing behind the curtain, particularly concerning the talented Harrison Cohen.

“Cohen is a striking presence on the mound,” said an insider. “His ability to throw a devastating slider puts him in a league of his own.”

A Closer Look at Harrison Cohen

In an insightful analysis by MLB Pipeline, Cohen is indicated as the Yankees' most likely prospect to get taken during the draft. This 6-foot right-hander, previously undrafted from George Washington University, has made headlines for his impressive minor league performance, reporting back-to-back seasons with a sub-2 ERA.

In his most recent stint, Cohen finished with a remarkable 1.76 ERA and a 1.10 WHIP, striking out 59 batters over 51 innings split between Triple-A and Double-A levels. What's behind these numbers? His pitch breakdown includes a low-80s cutter against right-handed hitters and an equally formidable mid-80s changeup that features armside fade against lefties. Not to be overlooked, his 92-94 mph four-seam fastball adds to his repertoire but could be more predictable.

The Slider that Dances

I had the chance to check out footage of that slider mentioned by Dykstra and Borek, and let me tell you, it's pure artistry. The deception stemming from Cohen's low arm slot and unorthodox motion results in a slider that seems to hypnotize batters—a frisbee-like effect that could lead to many head-scratching moments at the major league level.

This unique pitching style not only makes Cohen a tantalizing option for prospective teams but could also pose a dilemma for the Yankees. He is only a few steps away from making that jump to MLB stardom. However, the Rule 5 Draft isn't a guaranteed selection. Teams have discretion, and many clubs, whether in the midst of a competitive season or on the rebuilding track, might find a gem in Cohen.

Looking Ahead: Will the Yankees Make the Right Call?

The tension builds as the Rule 5 Draft approaches. With a litany of teams seeking fresh arms for their bullpens, Harrison Cohen stands out as a promising candidate that could easily slip from the Yankees' grasp. Whether the Yankees decide to make room for him or watch him walk away remains to be seen. The stakes are high, and the outcome could prove pivotal in the shaping of their 2025 season.

Conclusion: A Fan's Perspective

As a huge fan of the Yankees and the intricacies of player development, I can't help but feel anxious. The potential loss of a player like Cohen isn't just about losing talent; it speaks to the very heart of the Yankees' organizational philosophy. Will they prioritize depth in their current roster over nurturing emerging players? One thing is clear: the upcoming Rule 5 Draft will significantly influence how the Yankees approach their future. Only time will tell if losing Cohen will be a moment they regret.