Yankees' Aaron Judge Highlights Rising Star Carlos Lagrange During Spring Training

The New York Yankees are witnessing the emergence of a promising pitching prospect, Carlos Lagrange, a 22-year-old Dominican fireballer who ranks No. 2 on MLB Pipeline's list of top Yankees prospects. Lagrange has garnered attention this spring, particularly after impressing during live at-bats at Yankees camp. Notably, he struck out three-time American League Most Valuable Player Aaron Judge with a fastball clocked at 102.6 mph. Judge, who had previously hit a home run off Lagrange, expressed high expectations for the young pitcher, stating, “Carlos’ potential, man, is to be a front-line starter for the New York Yankees.” Lagrange's performance last season, where he recorded a 3.53 ERA and 168 strikeouts in 120 innings across High-A and Double-A, further underscores his potential.

NewsweekYankees’ Aaron Judge credits ‘unfinished business’ for massive spring training debut

Aaron Judge has made a significant impact in his return to spring training, hitting two home runs in his first game against the Detroit Tigers, contributing to a decisive 20-3 victory. Judge emphasized the importance of the upcoming season, stating, “We’ve got a lot of unfinished business from last season, especially the way it ended for us.” The Yankees finished the previous season with 94 wins but were eliminated in the American League Division Series by the Toronto Blue Jays, who swept them in four games. This playoff exit remains a motivating factor for Judge as he prepares for both the Yankees' season and the World Baseball Classic, where he will serve as Team USA's captain.

Yankees’ Aaron Judge credits ‘unfinished business’ for massive spring training debutNewsweek

Aaron Judge's comments reflect a strong commitment to the Yankees' success and a desire to overcome past disappointments. He noted the importance of being in the right mindset to help the team win, especially after last season's abrupt end. The Yankees' management and fans are optimistic about the combination of Judge's leadership and Lagrange's potential, which could strengthen the team's pitching rotation as they await the return of All-Stars Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodón from injury.

Newsweek

While excitement surrounds Lagrange's potential, some analysts caution against placing too much pressure on a young player. The Yankees' deep rotation may limit Lagrange's immediate opportunities in the major leagues, and critics argue that expectations should be tempered until he proves himself consistently at higher levels of competition.

Newsweek

• “Carlos’ potential, man, is to be a front-line starter for the New York Yankees,” — Aaron Judge, New York Yankees Outfielder

Newsweek

• “We've got a lot of unfinished business from last season, especially the way it ended for us.” — Aaron Judge, New York Yankees Outfielder

Yankees’ Aaron Judge credits ‘unfinished business’ for massive spring training debut

As the Yankees navigate the spring training season, the interplay between established stars like Judge and emerging talents like Lagrange will be crucial in shaping the team's prospects for the upcoming year.

Newsweek