Forums

Yankees: LHP Xavier Rivas

The Yankees took Xavier Rivas in the 16th round back in 2024. The southpaw out of Ole Miss threw 85.1 innings last year between the Complex and both A-Ball levels, combining for a 3.38 ERA and 31.3 percent strikeout rate. This did also come with a 13.9 percent walk rate. Rivas will turn 24-years-old in the middle of the 2026 season, meaning unless he vaults into the upper minors he’d be old for the level.

What makes Rivas an interesting pick here is his stuff. His changeup is a very good, potentially plus offering. It’s a swing and miss offering that he can use in any count. Combined with what appears to be an average breaking ball. His fastball is a low-90’s offering at present. As his strikeout rate shows, Rivas can generate plenty of whiffs, but he’ll need to find the strike zone more. If…

I know it’s a crazy ask but imagine if they could have him & Judge and the rest.

It will cost a lot but I believe it would be worth it.