In the thick of the international signing period kick-off, the New York Yankees stumble upon a much-needed addition. The club acquired a right-handed pitching prospect, Michael Arias, from the Chicago Cubs.

The Cubs had their priorities set to add right-handed pitcher Colin Rea. The only way to make room was to get rid of a player. They decided to designate Arias as a free agent.

The Yankees’ management and advanced scouting saw a great opportunity for a project player who could greatly assist the farm system, especially with Roki Sasaki off the list. The club extended cash considerations and claimed the pitcher off waivers.

The Journey of Michael Arias to the Yankees Organization

Arias’ raw baseball talent emerged around 16-17 years old, catching the attention of international scouts. The Toronto Blue Jays subsequently signed him as a shortstop for $10,000 in July 2018.

However, Arias struggled to gain traction over the next two seasons, ultimately leading to his release by the Blue Jays in 2020. In a surprising turn of events, the Chicago Cubs signed him a year later – but this time as a pitcher.

The Cubs saw more potential in Arias’ arm than his skills as a middle infielder, a decision that could prove pivotal in his career.

Development on the Mound

Arias’ development suggests he was always destined for a role on the mound, either as a pitcher or a two-way player. As he grew into his body, his arm traits surpassed his infield skills, making pitching the clear priority. Physically, Arias has matured into a 6-foot right-hander with a projectable frame and loose limbs. Initially, his mechanics were raw, and his control, pitch selection, and IQ were all works in progress.

However, with increased innings and experience, Arias’ craft has steadily improved. His mechanics have tightened, and his overall pitching acumen has taken a significant step forward.

Arias’ Stats in His Career

Arias’ transition to the mound was marked by significant struggles, and his numbers reflected the challenges he faced. Between 2022 and 2023, he accumulated a 1-14 record in 32 starts, a dismal statistic that could have easily led to his departure.

The details of his 2022 and 2023 seasons were equally concerning. In 2022, Arias went 0-4 in 10 starts with a 4.76 ERA and a nearly identical strikeout-to-walk ratio. The following year, he posted a 1-10 record in 22 starts, although his 4.09 ERA offered a glimmer of hope. His 110 strikeouts and 51 walks in 2023, split between Low-A and High-A competition, caught the attention of evaluators.

However, 2024 marked a turning point for Arias. He earned a promotion to Double-A Tennessee, where he excelled, going 3-0 with a 3.75 ERA. Later that year, he advanced to Triple-A, finishing with a 4.77 ERA, a 6-2 record, 72 strikeouts, and 48 walks in 60 1/3 innings.

Arias’ ability to improve his numbers was encouraging, but it was his underlying metrics that told a more promising story.

Evaluation Synopsis

Arias boasts an athletic, positional-player frame and a raw, yet promising, set of mechanics. While his mechanics don’t raise any significant injury concerns, his wind-up and delivery warrant ongoing monitoring. Mechanically, Arias features a mid-range leg kick, a sound wind-up, and a fluid, consistent delivery. His arm action is rotational, with a semi-sidearm release point, slightly south of a 3/4 arm slot.

Despite some mechanical refinement needed, Arias exhibits promising attributes, combining impressive metrics and pitch ability. His fastball is a standout offering, featuring biting downward movement and reaching up to 99 mph, with a consistent 95-98 mph range. He effectively works hitters inside with his fastball.

Arias’ changeup is another effective pitch, averaging around 88 mph with good sink and spin, often dropping below the knees. His slider has the potential to be a devastating out-pitch, cuffing hitters inside and sweeping in the upper 80s.

As a right-handed pitcher, Arias brings intriguing potential to the Yankees farm system. He’s currently ranked 29th among the top 30 prospects. While he has room for development, particularly regarding fastball command, Arias’ overall package is promising.