In recent seasons, the New York Yankees have struggled to translate minor-league offensive production to the majors. The repeated slippage has been undeniable. But some of that disappointment is due to how impressive their development has been below the surface, repeatedly turning mid-round picks into impressive chess pieces.
It's happening again this year, as both mini Brett Gardner (Brendan Jones) and slugging Dillon Lewis have broken out after being selected in the 12th and 13th rounds of 2024's MLB Draft.
Jones' impressive surge has been a bit more predictable. He played at a major school in Kansas State.