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The Yankees drafted Auburn left-hander Conner Kendrick in the ninth round of the draft. Kendrick started his college career at Georgia Tech, then transfered to Northwest Florida State Junior College for his sophomore season. He then moved to Auburn where he spent time in the rotation and the bullpen. The 6 foot, 190 pound lefty projects to be a reliever in pro ball.
Ranked by Baseball America at #313 on their top 500 list, Kendrick throws a fastball in the upper-80s with some good movement and he commands his changeup and curveball well. His secondary pitches have the potential to be Major League-average offerings, but he shows deception in his delivery, which helps to play up his stuff. He has earned praise for his poise and aggressiveness on the mound.
The Alabama native had an 8.40 K/9 and 3.25 BB/9 with a 2.13 ERA and two saves in 80.1 innings at Auburn this year. He led his team in strikeouts and ERA, but also had the most walks. He allowed 34 runs, but only 19 of them were actually earned. Talk about terrible defense playing behind you.
More Yankees Draft Coverage from Pinstriped Bible:
Yankees select OF Aaron Judge|Yankees select 3B Eric Jagielo
Yankees select 2B Gosuke Katoh|Yankees select LHP Ian Clarkin
Yankees select OF Michael O'Neill|Yankees select SS Tyler Wade
Yankees select RHP David Palladino|Yankees select SS John Murphy
Yankees select RHP Nick Rumbelow|Yankees select OF Branden Thomas
Yankees select LHP Conner Kendrick|Yankees select LHP Tyler Webb