Different Doesn't Necessarily Mean Wrong

The New York Yankees took a different path during this year's Major League Baseball Draft, leaving many baseball insiders surprised by several of their selections. While the strategy may not have followed the organization's typical blueprint, it doesn't mean the Yankees didn't come away with another talented draft class.

New York opened the draft by selecting Arkansas left-handed pitcher Hunter Dietz in the first round. Scouts have praised Dietz for his projectable frame and believe he has the potential to develop into a reliable major league starter. Some have compared him to Ben Hess, and Yankees fans will be hoping Dietz follows a development path similar to that of Cam Schlittler, who exceeded expectations after entering the organization. Although Dietz unexpectedly slipped in the draft, many evaluators believe he could develop into a solid mid-rotation arm while moving quickly through the minor league system.

The Yankees continued to add pitching in the second round by selecting another left-hander, Sean Duncan. The pick raised eyebrows because New York has traditionally avoided drafting high school pitchers early, especially one who has already undergone Tommy John surgery. However, the Yankees clearly believe Duncan's long-term upside outweighs the risk.

After addressing pitching, the organization returned to familiar territory by selecting catchers Brendan Brock from Oklahoma and Bear Harrison in consecutive rounds. The Yankees have consistently valued depth behind the plate, and both selections fit that organizational philosophy.

One of the more intriguing late-round selections was two-way player Luke Pettitte, the son of Yankees legend Andy Pettitte. His family pedigree has generated plenty of excitement, but he'll have the opportunity to make his own name within the organization.

Another player to watch is Baylor standout Tyce Armstrong, who set the school's single-season record while establishing himself as one of the most productive hitters in the program's history.

Overall, the Yankees may not have followed their usual draft strategy, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing. Sometimes the best draft classes are the ones that surprise everyone, and only time will tell if this unconventional approach pays off for New York.