The Yankees' 2026 MLB Draft: A Deep Dive into Rounds 11-15
The New York Yankees, a team known for their strategic drafting and player development, have been busy on Day 2 of the 2026 MLB Draft. With 16 picks to make, the Yankees have already demonstrated their focus on pitching and catching, and they continue to build a strong foundation for the future.
Round 11: Anthony Potestio, SS
In the 11th round, the Yankees selected Anthony Potestio, a shortstop from UC San Diego. Potestio, a 5'11" 195 lbs. player, is a patient hitter with solid contact skills. He posted a .298/.431/.436 triple slash in his final season, showcasing his ability to work the count and make solid contact. While he doesn't project for much power, his defensive versatility is a key asset. Potestio's ability to play multiple positions, including left field, second, and third base, in his freshman year, adds to his value. The Yankees, who already have a strong shortstop in their system, are likely looking to add depth and versatility to their infield.
Round 12: Austin Berggren, P
The 12th round saw the Yankees select Austin Berggren, a college reliever from Miami (Ohio). Berggren, a 6'3" 225 lbs. pitcher, had a strong season with a 3.65 ERA and 61 strikeouts in 44.1 innings. This is a significant improvement from his debut season, where he struggled with an ERA north of 10. Berggren's three-pitch arsenal, including a low-mid 90s heater, an 88-90 mph cutter, and a mid 80s curveball, is a key strength. His hefty spin on all pitches makes him an outstanding prospect. The Yankees are adding a reliable reliever with a mix of pitches and a strong track record.
Round 13: Lee Garris, OF
In the 13th round, the Yankees went back to prep school and selected Lee Garris, a left-handed hitting outfielder. Garris, a 6'0" 200 lbs. player, earned first-team all-state honors in Virginia and is committed to James Madison University. Despite a rough patch early in his senior season, Garris found his form with the help of former All-Star Michael Cuddyer, who encouraged him to simplify his approach. His commitment to JMU and ESPN's Kiley McDaniel's ranking of him in the top 250 prospects make him an interesting negotiation target. The Yankees are adding a talented outfielder with a strong work ethic and a positive development trajectory.
Round 14 and 15: TBD
The 14th and 15th rounds remain unassigned, leaving room for further strategic picks. The Yankees have the flexibility to continue building their pitching depth, adding more versatile infielders, or targeting specific needs based on their evaluation of remaining prospects.
In summary, the Yankees' drafting strategy on Day 2 of the 2026 MLB Draft has been focused on adding depth and versatility to their pitching and catching corps. Anthony Potestio, Austin Berggren, and Lee Garris are all strong additions to the organization, and the unassigned picks in rounds 14 and 15 provide further opportunities for strategic development. As the draft progresses, the Yankees continue to showcase their ability to identify and develop top talent, ensuring a bright future for the franchise.
