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Yankees’ clayton Beeter Battles Back From Injury, Seeks Command on the Mound
Right-handed pitcher clayton beeter is working to regain his form after a shoulder injury, with velocity returning but command still a challenge.
Tampa, FL — Clayton Beeter, a right-handed pitching prospect for the New York Yankees, is facing an uphill battle to secure his future with the team. After an injury-plagued 2024,Beeter is working his way back from shoulder trauma,aiming to contribute to the Yankees’ bullpen. His journey has been marked by flashes of brilliance adn frustrating inconsistencies.
The Promise of a High-Leverage Reliever
When healthy, Beeter possesses the raw talent to be a valuable asset out of the bullpen. His “stuff plays nicely out of the bullpen and, when healthy, he could be an ideal swing-and-miss hybrid for a ‘pen that is always looking for more middle-innings filth.” He has the potential to be a multi-inning reliever, capable of shutting down opposing offenses.
Though, the recurring shoulder issues have cast a shadow over his prospects. The “when healthy” caveat has become increasingly important, especially considering the unpredictable nature of shoulder injuries. Some pitchers fully recover from such injuries, while others struggle to regain thier previous form. The Yankees are undoubtedly hoping that Beeter falls into the former category.
Rehab Assignment: Velocity Returns,Command Lags
After a delayed start to the season due to renewed shoulder discomfort,Beeter embarked on a rehab assignment to regain his sharpness. His frist appearance on April 20 in Tampa was encouraging, showcasing his electrifying fastball and deceptive breaking ball. He “struck out four men in a perfect 1 1/3 innings,” demonstrating the potential that still resides within his right arm.
However, his subsequent outing on April 23 with Double-A Somerset revealed a different story. While his velocity remained extraordinary, peaking near 99 mph and sitting just below 97 mph, his command was noticeably absent. He also incorporated a cutter into his repertoire. As one observer noted, “Somerset’s broadcast had clayton Beeter’s average fastball velo at 96.8 (high of 98.7) and slider at 85.8 (high of 87). He also sprinkled in an 87.4 mph cutter.” The results were far from ideal,as he “surrendered three walks and three runs,recording just one out.”
somerset's broadcast had Clayton Beeter's average fastball velo at 96.8 (high of 98.7) and slider at 85.8 (high of 87). He also sprinkled in an 87.4 mph cutter.
Three swing-and-misses on fastballs, two on sliders.
Command was just not there. https://t.co/spr1gizVJ0
— Greg Johnson (@gregpj) News Editor Interviews Yankees Pitching coach on Beeter’s Rehab Journey.
Archyde News Editor: Welcome,Coach Castillo. Thanks for taking the time to speak with us today about Clayton Beeter’s progress. It’s been a challenging road for him, and the Yankees faithful are eager for an update.
Coach Castillo: The Current State of Play
Rafael Castillo: Happy to be here. Clayton’s a dedicated athlete.His talent is undeniable, and we’re all rooting for his success. The shoulder injury was brutal, no doubt, but he’s attacking his rehab assignment with a great attitude.
Archyde News Editor: His first outing in Tampa looked promising; the velocity was still there. But command issues were evident in his Double-A start. How are you working with him to address those inconsistencies?
Rafael Castillo: Velocity is fantastic, yes.it’s a foundation. The key now is consistency with a focus on location.We’re working on his mechanics and mental approach. It’s about repeating his delivery,finding that sweet spot repeatedly,and trusting his stuff. We’ve also increased his focus on scapular stabilization exercises, as recommended by our training staff
Breaking Down the Rehab
Archyde News editor: Can you elaborate on the mechanics aspect? What specific adjustments are you focusing on?
Rafael Castillo: We’re looking at his lower half stability and timing. We are focusing on the simple aspects, starting with his drive, his follow through. Slight adjustments to make sure the ball is coming out of his hand clean. It is important to trust that he has the tools to be a great pitcher. The rest comes through readiness and reps.
Archyde News Editor: We saw him incorporating a cutter. Is that something you’ve been encouraging, and how is it benefiting his arsenal?
rafael Castillo: Absolutely. A cutter adds a different dimension, a different angle. It gives him another weapon to keep hitters off balance. It’s something he was already working on before the injury. Now, it’s about integrating it seamlessly, making it another reliable out-pitch.
Looking ahead
Archyde News Editor: Given the nature of the shoulder injury,what’s the projected timeline for his return to the major leagues?
Rafael castillo: It’s difficult to give a hard date. We are on a day by day basis. The plan is for him to regain his confidence and work his way up through the system, one outing at a time. If he stays healthy and sharp, the opportunity will be there.
Archyde News Editor: The Yankees bullpen could certainly benefit from his high-leverage potential. What strengths do you see him bringing when he is fully back?
rafael Castillo: His fastball is electric, and his breaking ball has great bite. That makes him hard to hit. He has a high ceiling. The deception in his delivery also contributes to his potential as a multi-inning reliever. It’s exciting to think about the impact he can make.
Archyde News Editor: what would you say to Yankees fans who are anxiously waiting for Beeter’s return?
Rafael Castillo: Be patient. And keep the faith. Clayton is giving it everything he has. He’s got the heart of a bulldog, and the talent to match. We’re working hard every day to get him back on that mound and making an impact. And we want to see him succeed, too.
Archyde News Editor: Coach Castillo, thanks so much for your time and insight. It’s been a pleasure.
Rafael Castillo: My pleasure.
Reader Interaction
What steps do you think will be most crucial for Clayton Beeter to regain his command and succeed in the majors? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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