The Yankees opened their season at George M. Steinbrenner Field with a bang, dominating the Tigers and leaving little doubt about their offensive prowess.
The Yankees showcased their power, delivering the five hardest-hit balls of the game and throwing the five fastest pitches. Aaron Judge's two home runs were impressive, though they didn’t top the exit velocity charts, they certainly traveled the distance.
Carlos Lagrange, a standout prospect, made waves by throwing the 19 fastest pitches of the game, all fastballs. While his velocity was undeniable, his command was a bit shaky, resulting in two walks over 2.2 innings.
This outing served as a reminder that Lagrange, despite his immense potential, still needs seasoning in the minors. His performance echoed Cam Schlittler’s struggles in the 2025 Grapefruit League, yet Lagrange’s raw talent is evident.
His fastball, with an impressive 17.6 inches of induced vertical break at 99.8 MPH, is already drawing high grades. Coupled with his wicked changeup and dual sliders, Lagrange has the makings of a top-tier starter if he can refine his control and maintain his health.
On the offensive side, Spencer Jones made a statement by launching a 408-foot missile off Major League pitcher Keider Montero. With a more compact swing and a powerful frame, Jones is poised for a breakout season.
His 111.7 MPH homer was the hardest hit of the day, second only in distance to Judge. This season is pivotal for Jones, and any improvement in contact rate could solidify his place as a key player for the Yankees, especially if the team faces injuries or underperformance in the outfield.
Brock Selvidge also caught attention by rediscovering his lost velocity. His mid-90s fastballs and nasty cutter, combined with a sharp slider, made him a formidable presence on the mound. While his command needs work, Selvidge’s performance suggests he could be a viable option for the Yankees’ rotation if he continues to refine his pitches.
Overall, the Yankees’ performance was a promising start, showcasing both established stars and emerging talents ready to make their mark this season.