It would be an exaggeration to say the Yankees farm system was gutted, but more than a few of New York’s prospects were picked up by other clubs in this year’s Rule 5 Draft. One of those prospects, shortstop Kyle Holder, is a unique talent whom the Yankees might eventually regret losing to the Phillies.
Holder, 26, is among the best defensive infielders in the minors, but he needs further development as a hitter to break through to the big leagues. The narrative surrounding Holder is that he lacks potential at the plate and would likely struggle to hit in the majors.