The Yankees’ ability to develop pitching remains a standout aspect of their organization, consistently producing top-tier pitching staffs under Sam Briend and Matt Blake. Although they traded Nestor Cortes for Devin Williams this offseason, the team continues to prioritize building depth, whether through external acquisitions or internal options. While attention often gravitates toward the top pitching prospects for spot starts, a lesser-known player might be closer to making his MLB debut in 2025.
Ben Shields, an undrafted free agent who debuted in the minors at 25, emerged as an unexpected success story last season. A crafty left-hander with unconventional arm angles and a well-rounded arsenal, he could become a valuable asset for the Yankees if he impresses during Spring Training
Although entering his second season of Minor League Baseball at 26 isn’t ideal, Ben Shields demonstrated at High-A and Double-A that he has the command and repertoire to compete with any hitter. The left-hander impressed last season with a 31.1% strikeout rate and a 3.48 ERA over 106 MiLB innings, emerging unexpectedly as one of the Yankees’ more intriguing pitching prospects. His success stemmed from a combination of pitch diversity and distinct pitch shapes, utilizing a mix of four effective offerings.
According to Baseball America’s pitch tracking data, Shields primarily used a four-seamer (40%), slider (35%), curveball (18%), and sinker (5%), all of which were graded as average or better in scouting evaluations. While an average arsenal might not immediately stand out, having four reliable pitches enables Shields to keep hitters guessing with a variety of looks. Combined with his solid command, he consistently hits the right spots in the zone to maximize his effectiveness.
What makes Shields’ arsenal even more effective is his unique release mechanics. With a wide, low release point and impressive extension—averaging 6.6 feet on his fastball—he enhances the effectiveness of his pitches. Despite his heater sitting at a modest 91–93 MPH, the combination of extension and funky release angles helps him generate swings and misses at the top of the zone and limits hard contact. This approach resulted in a 0.76 HR/9 and a 14.8% swinging-strike rate, proving Shields can both miss bats and suppress damaging contact.
Ben Shields didn’t begin the season in a starting role, as Hudson Valley initially utilized him out of the bullpen. However, it didn’t take long for the team to recognize his potential. After being promoted to Double-A, Shields thrived, posting a 3.12 ERA and a 29.5% strikeout rate while maintaining a 50.4% ground-ball rate, showing no signs of struggle against tougher competition. There’s a case to be made for the Yankees to fast-track him to Triple-A Scranton to help him adjust to the higher level, and even if he doesn’t start 2025 there, he seems poised for a promotion soon.
Spring Training could be a key opportunity for Shields, who may earn a non-roster invite to demonstrate whether he’s ready for a bigger role in the Yankees’ system. With limited reliable starters at the upper levels of the Minors, his potential is even more significant. Clayton Beeter and Will Warren could graduate from prospect status this year, Yoendrys Gomez is out of MiLB options, and injuries to Brock Selvidge and Chase Hampton have delayed their development. This opens a potential pathway for Shields to establish himself as an important depth option.
To take the next step in his development, increasing his velocity would be a major asset. While he topped out at 92 MPH during his college career, Shields hit around 94 MPH this season. Another uptick in velocity could make him big-league ready. With his experience as both a reliever and a starter, and given the Yankees’ need for left-handed arms in the bullpen, Shields could find an opportunity to break into the Major Leagues during the season.
The Yankees are likely to add a left-handed reliever before the offseason ends, but an injury could leave them without a reliable lefty for late-game situations. This creates opportunities for pitchers in the upper levels of the Minors to step up, and Ben Shields could turn heads in the front office with a strong, healthy Spring Training. While some scouts may overlook him due to his age, there’s no rule against making a Major League debut later in a career.
Clarke Schmidt didn’t join the rotation until 27, and Michael King’s breakout came at the same age. Shields, at 26, still has time on his side. With an impressive repertoire and the potential for more velocity from his 6’4” frame, he could provide much-needed depth in an organization short on MLB-ready left-handed pitchers.
One more noteworthy detail: Steamer projects Shields to post a 3.67 ERA and a 23.5% strikeout rate over 15 innings this season. That’s not bad for someone who entered the Yankees’ system as an undrafted free agent just a year ago.
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