I LOVE THAT TEAM IN SCRANTON!

Photo: Times Leader

For my next and final installment on the Yankees farm, I head to Scranton-Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania... the home of the Triple-A Railriders.

Led by manager, Al Pedrique, the Railriders finished the season with a record of 86-55. Unfortunately, they fell short of a repeat championship, losing to the Durham Bulls.  Check this out from MILB.com:

Photo: Times Leader

"As they did all season, the SWB RailRiders (Triple-A/ New York Yankees) fought to the bitter end on Friday night at PNC Field, but fell short, 6-4, against the Durham Bulls in Game Four of the International League Governors' Cup Championship Series."

Here's the good news though; When the end of the year awards were announced, the Railriders had 2 guys bring home some nice hardware.  Tyler Wade and their manager in Pedrique.

Photo: Martin Griff

"The International League announced its end-of-year awards today and the SWB RailRiders (Triple-A/ New York Yankees) had two names included. Infielder Tyler Wade was named to the postseason All-Star Team at shortstop and Al Pedrique was voted Manager of the Year for the second straight season."

But after that award for Pedrique came new opportunity for him. After not receiving an interview shot for the managerial role for the Big Yankees this offseason, Pedrique bailed, leaving the organization for greener pastures. Pedrique is now the first base coach for Oakland A's. Not a bad gig.

Photo: Pinstriped Prospects

In response, the Railriders updated their coaching staff, naming Bobby Mitchell the new manager.

2018 will be a good year for the Railriders.  You just have to assume that momentum will help guide them again, and with the team they have, I have no doubt they can climb their way back to the championship... possibly even winning this time.

I have faith!

--Mike Carnesi
BYB Writer
Twitter: @sevn4evr