JAMES KAPRIELIAN: IT'S NOT A SPRINT, IT'S A MARATHON

 Source: Elsa/Getty Images North America

We've heard the phrase, "It's not a sprint, it's a marathon." And the other phrase, "It's not about the outcome, it's about the process."  Well, both of these sentiments drive home the idea that James Kaprielian may just be the next best Yankee starter in waiting, with the key word "waiting."

Source: LA Times

As Joe Girardi said in an interview captured in the NY Post on Saturday, “I think we’re probably going to see him in a game,” Girardi said of the 16th pick in the 2015 draft out of UCLA. “I’m not sure when, but I think our plan is his next appearance is going to be in a game. We’ve taken it slow on purpose because he’s pitched in the fall league.”

Taking it slow may be just the recipe the 23-year-old prospect needs missing most of last year with a flexor tendon problem and having pitched in the Arizona Fall League.  “Whether he gets here this year, I don’t know, but there’s a ton of talent there. I think the biggest thing for him is to stay healthy. If he does that, there’s definitely a chance I think.” He has a chance for big opportunities with some patience and wait time.

Source: NJ.com

Optimists like the media covering the Yankees and myself, a BYB writer, think if Kaprielian can stay healthy and continue to be effective,  there could be a big push to bring one of the Yankees’ top pitching prospects to the Bombers in the Bronx sometime in 2017.  The skeptic in me feels that he needs more time to grow and develop his pitching arm.  We don't need him to go out too hard and not get the rest and recovery he needs from innings pitched.  We don't need him to come back after surgery like another young pitcher across the River.  That pitcher and Mets hopeful being Zack Wheeler.

Source: NY Post

"Wheeler's 2016 comeback was stymied by a bunch of problems: a flexor strain, a dissolving stitch that never dissolved and nerve discomfort in the elbow. He also had elbow soreness earlier this spring training. The Mets have discussed adding Wheeler to the bullpen instead of the starting rotation, but haven't made any decisions," reported NJ.com  Wheeler pitched just under his 35 pitch limit on Friday against the Braves and according to Mets Manager Terry Collins, he looked good hitting his curveball and spiking the radar gun at 94-mph.

As for Kaprielian, I would like to see him take his time and ask that the Yankees not rush him.  He has a lot of talent, some of which is unrealized since he is so young in his career.  He has the potential of being something great, maybe like my favorite Yankee pitcher, Ron Guidry.  Let's not go that far, but one could hope...Happy Sunday, everyone!



--Suzie Pinstripe
BYB Managing Editor
Twitter: @suzieprof