Anthony Claggett

Organization Prospect Rankings

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  Ranked New York Yankees #26 prospect in 2009
  Acquired from the Tigers in the Gary Sheffield trade, Claggett has moved past Humberto Sanchez and Kevin Whelan, the other components of the deal who both previously ranked in this Top 10. While Sanchez has had Tommy John surgery and conditioning issues and Whelan has battled injuries and a lack of control, Claggett was added to the 40-man roster this offseason and looks primed to contribute in New York. Though he started for part of 2007, he has had more success in the bullpen. He overcame an early hamstring strain and late shoulder soreness to pitch well in Double-A last season. Claggett's fastball lacks the pure velocity desired of a closer, but he sinks the ball effectively while still sitting at 91-92 mph, and he can reach back for more when he needs to. Better fastball command is essential for him to be more than just a middle reliever. He also needs to pitch inside to set up his calling card--a plus 84-85 mph slider with good depth. He added a changeup when he was starting and it has some fade to it, grading out as average. His starting experience also primed him for longer relief outings, and just five of his 30 outings in 2008 went for one inning or less. He returned from his shoulder problem to pitch effectively in the Eastern League playoffs and should compete for a big league setup job in spring training, though he's more likely to open the season in Triple-A.