The Book on Mark Melancon
Prospect Info
Mark Melancon
Born 3/28/1985
RHP, NYY
After gaining national attention as the award winning closer at U Arizona, Melancon's selection by the Yankees in the 2006 draft had 'Rivera Replacement' written all over it. After taking a year and a half to climb back up from TJ surgery, his fastball returned, and he's about as ready for the big-leagues as any prep pitcher has ever been. That 95mph fastball and hammer curve looked pretty good during limited use at Yankee Stadium in 2009 ten strikeouts, zero walks), and by all reports, Melancon has the big game attitude and short memory that closers need to succeed at any level. He should stick in the Yankees bullpen this season, probably ending up as Mariano's setup man and heir apparent... unless Joba Chamberlain once again returns to favorite bullpen son status.
No notes or updates today.
