MIKE BLOWERS
"It took a trek through two countries, but Mike Blowers may have found a permanent spot in the Yankee infield. Acquired from the Montreal Expos as part of the John Candelaria deal, the 25-year-old third baseman came highly recommended for his defensive skills.
Seven different infielders tried their wares at the hot corner in 1989, but none made enough of an impression to earn a full-time role. Although Blowers' only major league experience consists of his 13 games in Pinstripes last September, his rapid progression through the minor leagues exhibits a player of untapped potential. 1990 may be his unveiling."
-The New York Yankees Official 1990 Yearbook
"Blowers started the 1989 season with the Indianapolis Indians, the Montreal Expos' AAA affiliate in the American Association. He was acquired as the player to be named later by the Yankees on August 31 in a trade that sent pitcher John Candelaria to Montreal on August 29. At the time of the trade he was hitting .267 with 29 doubles, 14 home runs and 56 RBIs over 131 games.
He made his major league debut against California as a pinch hitter and lined out to first base. He then came in to play third base, the seventh Yankee to play third base in 1989. Blowers made three straight starts against the Mariners (September 5-7) in Seattle. He was 3-for-10 in the series, getting a pair of hits in his starting debut on September 5. His first major league hit was a single off Jerry Reed.
Mike did not play again until starting three games against the Mariners in New York (September 15-17). He went 3-for-9 in that series with his first two major league RBIs. Mike ended the season going 2-for-12 in his last four games.
Overall, he played in 13 games and had 10 hits, all singles. He made 11 starts and hit .286 (10-for-35) with four errors in that capacity. Mike was 6-for-19 (.316) against the Mariners and 4-for-19 (.211) against the rest of the league. He hit .500 (3-for-6) in day games and .219 (7-for-32) in night games; hit .375 (3-for-8) against left-handed pitchers and .233 (7-for-30) against right-handers; and hit .500 (3-for-6) with men in scoring position.
He signed a contract for the 1990 season.
Blowers was selected by the Expos in the 10th round of the June 1986 free agent draft. He was signed by Expos scout Whitey DeHart in June. That year he hit a combined .233 at Jamestown and Bradenton.
At West Palm Beach in 1987, Mike was shifted from shortstop to third base and responded by leading Florida State League third basemen in fielding (.944). He finished second in home runs (16) and game-winning RBIs (13), was third in total bases (208) and fourth home run/at-bat ratio (1/30.7).
With Jacksonville in 1988, Mike led Southern League third basemen in games (137), putouts (125) and double plays (27). He hit two home runs on June 12 at Greensville and hit .281 with seven home runs and 29 RBIs after July 1.
While attending the University of Washington, he once hit two home runs in one inning. Mike is a 1983 graduate of Bethel (WA) High School where he copped All-League and team MVP honors in baseball his last two seasons. He is an avid golfer."
-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide
"Led Florida State League third basemen in fielding (.944), 1987.
Led Southern League third basemen in games (137), putouts (125) and double plays (27), 1988."
-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide
DEION SANDERS
"Not one to avoid the limelight, Deion Sanders arrived as a New York Yankee amid much fanfare. But to his credit, the young outfielder stayed focused and his on-the-field performance portrayed an athlete with unique talents. Sanders made a quick impression in Pinstripes throwing out a runner at third in his first game and collecting his first major league hit the same night.
The 22-year-old still has much to prove, but if last season's effort is any indication of what the future holds, the Yankees of tomorrow have a star in the making."
-The New York Yankees Official 1990 Yearbook
"An exciting player to watch, Deion made a definite impact on the 1989 Yankees. He made the jump from AA to the majors when his contract was purchased from Albany on May 31. At the time of his promotion, Deion was hitting .286 (34-for-119) with two doubles, two triples, a homer and six RBIs over 33 games. He also stole 17 bases in 22 attempts.
Sanders made his major league debut that night, starting in center field against Seattle. He went 1-for-4 with his first major league hit coming on a 7th inning single off Brian Holman. He also registered an assist in the 1st inning, throwing out Greg Briley at third base.
He started the next four games (June 1-4) at Milwaukee and hit his first major league home run on June 4 off Brian Clutterbuck. His homer came in his 14th plate appearance, the quickest by a Yankee rookie since Phil Lombardi hit one in his eighth plate appearance in 1986. Sanders hit in three straight games (June 8-11) against Boston (4-for-12, .333), with his first stolen base on June 10 with Rich Gedman behind the plate. He was optioned to Columbus on June 12.
At the time of his option, Deion was hitting .212 (7-for-33) with a homer, three RBIs, three walks and six strikeouts over nine games. He batted leadoff for the Yankees in four games (5-for-18, .278) and in the number nine spot in four games (2-for-14, .143), going 0-for-1 as a pinch hitter.
In 70 games with the Clippers, Deion hit .278 with five homers, 30 RBIs and 16 steals in 23 attempts; overall in the minors in 1989 he stole 33 bases in 45 attempts. While at Columbus he earned International League Batter of the Week honors for the week of August 27-September 1 (6 G, 12-for-25 (.480), .500 on-base percentage, .560 slugging average).
Sanders was recalled for a second time by the Yankees on September 2 and made five appearances (four starts) before leaving the club on September 6 [to join the National Football League's Atlanta Falcons]. His best game in the majors came on September 5 at Seattle, going 3-for-5 with two doubles, a home run (off Jerry Reed) and four RBIs. On September 6 Deion struck out swinging in the sixth inning in his final at-bat. During his second stint with the Yankees he hit .286 (4-for-14) with a homer and four RBIs. Deion is unsigned for the 1990 season.
The Yankees' 30th round pick in the June 1988 free agent draft, Deion was signed by Yankee scout Bill Livesey and Yankee Scouting Director Brian Sabean and recommended by Yankee scout Bob Hartsfield. His first season of professional baseball was split among three Yankee affiliates: Sarasota, Ft. Lauderdale and Columbus. Deion joined Sarasota in the Rookie League and hit .280 (21-for-75) over 17 games with 11 stolen bases. He was promoted to Class-A Ft. Lauderdale and hit .429 (9-for-21) with five runs scored in six games. At Columbus he hit .150 (3-for-20) in five games.
Deion attended Florida State University where he played baseball, football and ran track. He was named to Baseball America's 1988 preseason All-America team, and in football was the 1988 Jim Thorpe Award winner as best collegiate defensive back and a two-time consensus All-American (1987, 1988). Deion was also named to the All-America track team in 1988."
-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide
HENSLEY MEULENS
"It seems like we've been hearing the name Hensley 'Bam-Bam' Meulens for a long time now. Actually, the strapping third baseman is only 22 years old.
He made his long-awaited Yankee debut near the end of the '89 season and it showed, if nothing else, that the majors do not intimidate the phenom. Meulens hit under .200 in eight New York games, but he was in town long enough to savor the big leagues and return to Columbus knowing exactly what he still needs to do before he gets his next call.
With a more refined swing and some work with the glove, 'Bam-Bam' will soon get his chance to thump American League pitchers on a regular basis."
-The New York Yankees Official 1990 Yearbook
"Meulens began the 1989 season with the AA Albany-Colonie Yankees. He hit .257 with 11 home runs and 45 RBIs in 104 games. He was promoted to AAA Columbus on August 9 but still managed to finish tied for second on the Albany club in home runs (11) and led the Eastern League in hit by pitches (9).
With Columbus, Meulens appeared in 14 games and hit .289 with four doubles, a home run and three RBIs. He was recalled by the Yankees on August 23 and spent the remainder of the season with them. He made eight consecutive starts (August 23-29) and then did not see action again.
On August 23, Hensley made his major league debut, going 1-for-3 against the Red Sox and getting his first major league hit, a 7th inning single off Mike Boddicker. His only RBI came on August 25 against Baltimore, a 9th inning single off Jeff Ballard driving in the lone Yankee run in a 3-1 loss. His only multi-hit game came on August 28, a two-hit effort against Oakland. He signed a contract for the 1990 season.
Meulens began the 1988 season at Albany-Colonie of the AA Eastern League and batted .245 in 79 games with nine doubles, 13 home runs and 40 RBIs along with 96 strikeouts. He was named as the starter at third base in the Eastern League All-Star Game. He started all 79 games at third base and committed 23 errors but did tie for the Eastern League lead in double plays by a third baseman (18).
He was promoted to AAA Columbus on July 5 and played 55 games with the Clippers, batting .230 with nine doubles, six home runs and 22 RBIs along with 61 strikeouts. Hensley played 54 games at third for the Clippers and committed 14 errors. He was added to the Yankees 40-man roster in November.
Meulens was signed by the Yankees as a free agent on October 31, 1985 by Yankee scout Fred Ferreira and was recommended by Yankee scout Dick Groch. He played 59 games in 1986, his first professional season, at 'A' Sarasota and batted .233 in 59 games with four home runs and 31 RBIs along with 66 strikeouts. He led the Gulf Coast League in strikeouts while leading the league's third basemen in games (59), total chances (178), putouts (40) and assists (118). Meulens was named as the third baseman on the Gulf Coast League All-Star team.
He began the 1987 season at 'A' Prince William where he played 116 games and batted .300 (129-for-430) with 76 runs, 23 doubles, 28 home runs, 103 RBIs, 14 stolen bases and 124 strikeouts. He led the Carolina League in home runs and led the league's third basemen in errors (37). Hensley was named to the 1987 Carolina League All-Star team as a utility infielder. He finished the season by playing 17 games at 'A' Ft. Lauderdale where he hit .172 (10-for-58) with two RBIs and 25 strikeouts.
Hensley is a native of Curacao (part of the Netherlands Antilles, located in the Caribbean Sea) and still resides there."
-1989 New York Yankees Information Guide
DAVE EILAND
"He is still in need of Triple-A seasoning, but 23-year-old Dave Eiland should be ripe before too long. He's had two brief stints with the Yankees over the last two years and it will only be a matter of time before the big right-hander finds a lasting niche in the Bronx.
Since joining the organization out of the University of Florida in 1987, Eiland has steadily progressed through each minor league obstacle. Before 1990, he owned a minor league record of 28-13 and a 2.74 ERA. Numbers will help draw attention, but it will be patience that ultimately forges his major league future."
-The New York Yankees Official 1990 Yearbook
"Eiland started the 1989 season with Columbus (AAA International League) and was recalled on June 17. At the time he was 7-3 in 12 starts with a 3.60 ERA (75 IP, 30 ER) for the Clippers; he went 6-1 in his final seven games with a 2.52 ERA before coming to New York. At the time of his recall, Eiland had a career minor league record of 26-12 with a 2.61 ERA over 310.1 innings.
He made a start against Texas on the day of his recall, earning his first major league win. He pitched seven innings, allowing three runs on seven hits in a 5-3 Yankee win. It turned out to be Eiland's only win in 1989 as a Yankee.
Eiland made five starts the rest of the way and was 0-3 with two no-decisions. Overall he was 1-3 in six starts with a 5.77 ERA for the Yankees. He pitched seven-plus innings in each of his first three starts, and six or less in his last three starts. The club was 1-6 when Eiland pitched.
On July 15 he was optioned back to Columbus where he spent the remainder of the season. He went 2-1 with a 4.18 ERA in six starts for the Clippers, giving him an overall 9-4 mark with a 3.76 ERA at Columbus. He signed a contract for the 1990 season.
Eiland began the 1988 season with Albany-Colonie (AA Eastern League) where he was 9-5 with a 2.56 ERA in 18 games (all starts) with 22 walks and 66 strikeouts in 118.1 innings pitched. He finished fifth in the Eastern League in ERA and was named to the mid-season EL All-Star team. Eiland was promoted to Columbus and made one appearance at that level, a start on July 29 in Columbus against Toledo, winning 5-3 and allowing two earned runs on five hits in seven innings.
He had his contract purchased by the Yankees on August 3 and made his major league debut that night in a start against the Brewers in Milwaukee. He got a no-decision in that game, a 6-5 Yankee loss. Eiland pitched seven innings and allowed three hits and one run with two walks and three strikeouts. That run was a result of a leadoff home run by Paul Molitor, the first batter he faced in the majors. After he walked the next batter, Jim Gantner, he allowed just three more Brewers to reach base through seven innings (Rob Deer was the first major league batter he struck out); after Molitor's homer, only one other Brewer was able to reach second. Eiland left the game with the Yankees leading 5-1, but Milwaukee came back with five runs off Dave Righetti in the final two innings to win. With that game, Eiland became at age 22 the youngest pitcher to start for the Yankees since Al Leiter on September 15, 1987.
His second start with the Yanks came on August 11 in New York against Toronto, when he lasted just 1.2 innings. He allowed three runs on four hits, with all the runs coming on two solo home runs by Ernie Whitt and a solo shot by Rance Mulliniks, but Eiland got a no-decision in New York's 6-5 loss. His third and final start for the Yankees came on August 17 against California, when he gave up eight hits and five earned runs in four innings, including solo homers to Jack Howell and Wally Joyner, with a walk and two strikeouts and again got a no-decision in the Yankees' eventual 11-7 win.
Overall in his three starts for New York, Eiland allowed nine earned runs in 12.2 innings (6.39 ERA), six of those earned runs coming on solo homers, with four walks, seven strikeouts and a batting average against of .294. He was optioned back to Columbus on August 18, where he finished the season. Overall with the Clippers, Eiland was 1-1 in four starts with a 2.59 ERA (24.1 IP, 7 ER), six walks and 13 strikeouts.
Eiland was originally selected by the Yankees in the 7th round of the June 1987 free agent draft. He was signed by Yankee scout Jack Gillis. Eiland began his first professional season at Oneonta ('A' New York-Penn League) and went 4-0 with a 1.84 ERA in five games (all starts). He was promoted to Ft. Lauderdale ('A' Florida State League) where he was 5-3 with a 1.88 ERA in eight starts, including four complete games and a shutout.
Prior to being drafted, Eiland attended the University of Florida where he played football (fullback/tight end) and baseball before transferring to the University of South Florida, where he was playing when drafted. "
-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide
"Tied for Eastern League in complete games (7), 1988."
-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide
BERNIE WILLIAMS
"Bernie was signed as a free agent in September 1985. He split last season between Albany-Colonie and Columbus. In 141 combined games, he hit .239 with 13 home runs, 58 RBIs and 37 stolen bases.
Recognized as a complete player with a brilliant future, Bernie has great speed and natural ability. In 343 minor league games, he has stolen 117 bases."
-The New York Yankees Official 1990 Yearbook
"Bernie combined to split a full season of playing time between Albany and Columbus in 1989. He started the season with the Clippers, where he hit .216 with eight doubles, a triple, two home runs and 16 RBIs over 50 games. He joined Albany where he hit for both power and a better average. Over 91 games, Bernie hit .252 with 11 doubles, eight triples, 11 home runs and 42 RBIs; his eight triples ranked third in the Eastern League. 30 of his 79 hits went for extra bases and he posted a .443 slugging percentage. He signed a contract for the 1990 season.
Bernie was signed by the Yankees as a free agent on September 13, 1985. He was signed by Yankee scout Fred Ferreira and recommended by Yankee scout Roberto Rivera. He spent his first professional season at Sarasota, batting .270 in 61 games with two home runs, 25 RBIs and 33 stolen bases. He led the Gulf Coast League in runs (45) and caught stealing (12) and led GCL outfielders in total chances (123) and putouts (117). Bernie was named as an outfielder on the Gulf Coast League All-Star team.
In 1987 he split time between Ft. Lauderdale and Oneonta. Bernie started the season at Ft. Lauderdale, where he batted .155 (11-for-71) in 25 games with no home runs, four RBIs and nine stolen bases. He separated his shoulder on May 17, missing a month of the season. Upon his return he was assigned to Oneonta, where in 25 games he hit .344 (32-for-93) with no homers, 15 RBIs and nine stolen bases. He missed additional games later in the year with a groin pull.
Bernie played 91 games for 'A' Prince William in 1988 and batted .338 with 72 runs, 16 doubles, seven triples, seven home runs, 45 RBIs and 29 stolen bases. His season ended on July 14 when he ran into an outfield wall at Hagerstown chasing a fly ball, suffering a right navicular (wrist) fracture. He was placed on the disabled list, where he remained for the rest of the season. Despite his curtailed season Williams led the Carolina League in hitting and finished tied for third in triples. Bernie was added to the Yankee 40-man roster in November of 1988."
-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide
KEVIN MMAHAT
"This hard thrower's potential should not be dismissed despite a very disappointing September stint with the Yankees in which he went 0-2 with a 2.91 ERA. Mmahat earned a quick promotion to Columbus (AAA) after going 5-1 with a 1.58 ERA for Albany (AA) and was a 3-4 with a 3.84 ERA for Columbus.
Poor control poses his biggest problem. Mmahat must learn to harness his abilities.
Born in Memphis, Tennessee, he was the Rangers' 31st round pick in 1987 and was acquired by the Yankees in June of 1988."
-Tom Pedulla, The Complete Handbook of Baseball, 1990 Edition
"Kevin was acquired from the Texas organization in 1988. He spent the 1989 season between Albany-Colonie and Columbus before finishing with New York in September. He was 5-1 at Albany with a 1.58 ERA and struck out 48 batters in 51 innings. He started 15 games at Columbus, going 3-4, and made his major league debut on September 9.
Kevin is a hard thrower who should see more action in New York this year."
-The New York Yankees Official 1990 Yearbook
"Mmahat was one of three Yankees to start the 1989 season with AA Albany-Colonie and make the major league roster. The big left-hander posted a 5-1 record with a 1.58 ERA in eight starts at Albany, including a shutout, and over 51.1 innings allowed 35 hits, 11 runs (9 ER), walked 19 [1.05 WHIP], fanned 48 batters and did not allow a home run.
He was promoted to Columbus on May 29 and over 82 innings allowed 70 hits, 44 runs (35 ER), walked 49 batters [1.45 WHIP] and fanned 50. Mmahat allowed three home runs, or one every 27.1 innings pitched, and combined with Albany allowed an average of one every 44.1 innings.
Mmahat was recalled by the Yankees on September 2 and at the time of his recall was 3-4 with a 3.84 ERA in 15 starts at Columbus. He made his major league debut on September 9 at Oakland. He came in to face Mark McGwire with two men on base and struck him out [called third strike]. Mmahat's second appearance came on September 21 against Milwaukee in the second game of a twin-bill: after going 3.1 innings, he hit Charlie O'Brien with a pitch and was immediately ejected from the game (one of four players ejected).
On September 25 at Boston, he made his starting debut, the 16th Yankee pitcher to start a game in 1989. He lasted just 1.2 innings, allowing five runs (all earned) on four hits including a three-run homer by Dwight Evans. Mmahat's only other start came on October 1 against Detroit on the final day of the season; he pitched two innings, allowing three runs (two earned) on three hits. He signed a contract for the 1990 season.
Mmahat was selected by the Texas Rangers in the 31st round of the June 1987 free agent draft and was signed by Doug Gassoway. He spent the season with the Rangers' Rookie League club at Sarasota where he compiled a 3-3 record with a 3.21 ERA in 12 games (12 GS, 1 CG). Mmahat led the Gulf Coast League in strikeouts with 60 in 53.1 innings (10.1 K/9 IP).
The Yankees purchased his contract from the Texas organization on June 20, 1988. He began with New York's Class-A affiliate at Ft. Lauderdale and was used primarily as a starter. Mmahat was 7-7 with a 4.13 ERA (102.1 IP, 47 ER) in 17 appearances (16 starts) and had three complete games, 78 strikeouts and 57 walks. He tied for the lead in fielding percentage (1.000) among Florida State League pitchers. He was promoted to Albany where he made six appearances (all starts) and was 2-3 with a 3.99 ERA, fanning 32 batters over 38.1 innings.
Mmahat is of French/Turkish ancestry resulting in the double-consonant in his last name, which is pronounced 'Mam-a-hat.' At Tulane University he played baseball with Wally Whitehurst and Gene Harris and against Greg Swindell and Deion Sanders. He graduated from Grace King (LA) High School where he played baseball (against the Giants' Will Clark), football, basketball, track, tennis and golf. Mmahat played Babe Ruth and Little League ball in New Orleans. His nickname came from his high school football coach who could not pronounce 'Mmahat' so he shortened it to 'Hat.' "
-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide
SCOTT KAMIENIECKI
"Scott was selected by the Yankees in the 14th round of the June 1986 draft. One of the club's very best pitching prospects, he posted a very strong 1989 effort at Albany-Colonie, going 10-9 with a 3.70 ERA with six complete games and three shutouts. Scott struck out 140 batters in 151 innings to lead the Eastern League in only his third professional season."
-The New York Yankees Official 1990 Yearbook
"Scott spent the 1989 season with the Yankees AA affiliate Albany-Colonie. He compiled a 10-9 record with a 3.70 ERA (151 IP, 62 ER) in 24 appearances (23 starts). Scott led the Eastern League with 140 strikeouts, and his average of 8.34 K/9 IP ranked second best in the league. He tied for third on the club with six complete games, second with three shutouts and was one of four Albany-Colonie pitchers with at least 10 wins in '89. He signed a contract for the 1990 season.
He was drafted by the Yankees in the 14th round of the June 1986 free agent draft, having also been drafted by Milwaukee (1985) and Detroit (1982). He was signed by Yankee scout Dick Groch.
Scott began the 1987 season with Albany-Colonie, going 1-3 with a 5.35 ERA in 10 games (7 GS), and finished the season with Class-A Prince William where he compiled a 9-5 record with a 4.17 ERA in 19 starts (1 CG). Scott fanned 84 batters in 112.1 innings and was named to the Carolina League All-Star team.
He split the 1988 season with Prince William and Class-A Ft. Lauderdale. He was 6-7 (4.40 ERA) with the Cannons in 15 starts (two shutouts). Scott tied for the Carolina League lead with seven complete games and was the league leader among starting pitchers with a .220 batting average against. He was promoted to Ft. Lauderdale where was 3-6 with a 3.62 ERA in 12 appearances (11 GS, 1 CG, 1 SHO) and fanned 51 batters in 77 innings.
Scott earned a B.A. in physical education from the University of Michigan where he played baseball. He was a four-year letterman and named to the All-Big Ten first team (1984), Academic All-Big Ten first team (1986) and Pre-Season All-American team (1985).
Scott attended Redford St. Mary's High School in Detroit and played baseball and football. Originally a shortstop, he played Babe Ruth ball and Little League in Detroit. Scott played against current major leaguers Barry Larkin and Chris Sabo."
-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide
ANDY STANKIEWICZ
"Andy was selected by the Yankees in the 12th round of the 1986 June draft. He enjoyed an outstanding season at Albany-Colonie where he led the Yankees to the Eastern League championship. The All-Star led the league in runs (74), stolen bases (41) and sacrifice flies (11), and was second in at-bats (498), third in hits (133) and tied for third in doubles (26).
He's an extremely hard-nosed player who has developed into a fine talent and an excellent leader."
-The New York Yankees Official 1990 Yearbook
"Andy spent the 1989 season with the AA Albany-Colonie Yankees and hit .267 over 133 games. He led the Eastern League in runs (74), stolen bases (41) and sacrifice flies (11), was second in at-bats (498), was third in hits (133) and tied for third in doubles (26).
Among second basemen, Andy led the league in games (133), total chances (615), putouts (242), assists (369) and double plays (85). He had a streak of 93 errorless games which was snapped on July 23 against Harrisburg.
He was named to the Eastern League All-Star team. He signed a contract for the 1990 season.
Andy was the Yankees' 12th round pick in the regular phase of the June 1986 free agent draft. He was signed by Yankee scout Orrin Freeman. He played 59 games with the Class-A Oneonta Yankees, where he batted .296 with eight doubles and 17 RBIs.
Spending the entire 1987 season at Class-A Ft. Lauderdale, Andy hit .307 in 119 games with 26 stolen bases, 18 doubles, seven triples, two home runs and 47 RBIs. He was named to the Florida State League All-Star team.
Andy started the 1988 season with Albany-Colonie and was promoted to AAA Columbus. With Albany, he hit .268 over 109 games with 20 doubles, two triples, a homer, 34 RBIs and 15 stolen bases and was named to the Eastern League All-Star team.
Andy attended Pepperdine University in California. In 1982 he graduated from St. Paul High School (CA) where he played baseball, basketball and football."
-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide
"Led Eastern League in runs (74), 1989.
Led Eastern League in stolen bases (41), 1989.
Led Eastern League in sacrifice flies (11), 1989.
Named to Eastern League All-Star team, 1989."
-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide
DARRIN CHAPIN
"Darrin was drafted by the Yankees in the 6th round of the 1986 January draft. He's a talented reliever who spent most of 1989 with Columbus where he posted a 2.93 ERA with five saves in 27 appearances and struck out 38 batters in only 40 innings. Darrin owns a 2.71 ERA in his four pro seasons."
-The New York Yankees Official 1990 Yearbook
"Chapin began the 1989 season with the AA Albany-Colonie Yankees of the Eastern League. He was 1-0 (0.00 ERA) and was used exclusively as a closer, finishing all seven of his games. He fanned 16 batters in 8.2 innings (16.61 K/9 IP).
He was promoted to Columbus of the International League on May 9 and was 2-4 (2.93 ERA) in 27 appearances (all relief). Darrin fanned 38 batters over 40 innings (8.55 K/9 IP). He ranked second on the club in games finished (21 in 27 appearances) and earned five saves.
He signed a contract for the 1990 season.
Chapin was selected by the Yankees in the 6th round of the January 1986 free agent draft. He was signed by Yankee scout Dick Groch. He was used exclusively as a starter in his first pro season, going 4-3 in 13 starts for Sarasota (Rookie League) with 67 strikeouts and a 3.24 ERA in 83.1 innings pitched. He had two complete games, both shutouts, but led Gulf Coast League pitchers in runs allowed (42).
Darrin was converted into a reliever prior to the 1987 season. In 25 relief appearances with Class-A Oneonta (New York-Penn League), he went 1-1 with 12 saves, 26 strikeouts and a 0.68 ERA in 40 innings pitched.
He spent most of the 1988 season at Ft. Lauderdale of the 'A' Florida State League but also pitched briefly at Albany-Colonie. Darrin began the season at Ft. Lauderdale and on June 1 was promoted to Albany. He pitched in three games at Albany (all in relief), going 0-0 with an 11.25 ERA (4 IP, 5 ER) before returning to Ft. Lauderdale on June 18 where he finished the season.
Overall at Ft. Lauderdale, Darrin was 6-4 in 38 games (all in relief) with 15 saves, 57 strikeouts and a 0.86 ERA in 63 innings pitched. His 15 saves ranked sixth in the Florida State League. He was added to the Yankees' 40-man roster in November.
Darrin attended Cleveland State University and Cuyahoga Community College."
-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide
BOB DAVIDSON
"Bob was selected by the Yankees in the 24th round of the June 1984 draft. He has spent six years in the Yankees' farm system and made his major league debut last year.
He spent time in Columbus and Albany-Colonie in 1989, finishing the year with a combined record of 10-5 and a 2.09 ERA."
-The New York Yankees Official 1990 Yearbook
"Bob began the 1989 season with the AA Albany-Colonie Yankees. He went 2-0 with two saves and a 2.87 ERA in 12 appearances (3 starts) and struck out 26 in 31.1 innings. He was promoted to the AAA Columbus Yankees where he compiled an 8-5 record and 1.83 ERA and threw two complete games and a shutout.
The Yankees purchased his contract from Columbus on July 15 and Bob made his major league debut that day against Kansas City at Yankee Stadium. He started the 9th inning and induced the first batter he faced, Willie Wilson, into a groundout but also surrendered a two-run homer to George Brett. He pitched one inning, allowing two earned runs.
He did not pitch again for New York and was optioned back to Columbus two days later. Davidson finished the season at Columbus, capturing International League Player of the Week honors for the week of August 28-September 3. He signed a contract for the 1990 season.
Davidson was selected by the Yankees in the 24th round of the June 1984 free agent draft. He was signed by Yankee scout Jim Gruzdis. He began his pro career with the Class-A [short season] Oneonta Yankees and went 2-5 (3.45 ERA) in 24 appearances (all relief). Bob earned 10 saves and struck out 26 over 28.2 innings (8.16 K/9 IP).
He spent the entire 1985 season with Oneonta and went 1-2 with a 2.50 ERA in 29 games (all relief). Bob earned five saves and fanned 44 batters over 36 innings (11 K/9 IP).
Bob spent 1986 with both Class-A Ft. Lauderdale and Albany. He compiled a 4-2 record (3.99 ERA) with Ft. Lauderdale in 16 games (7 GS, 1 CG) and fanned 37 batters over 58.2 innings. Bob was promoted to Albany and was 1-1 with a 4.91 ERA in 24 appearances (all relief), earning four saves, and struck out 25 batters in 36.2 innings.
He began the 1987 season with Prince Williams and was 3-10 (3.98 ERA) and started 16 games (21 appearances), with five complete games and a shutout. Bob fanned 70 batters over 124.1 innings and was named to the Carolina League All-Star team. He was promoted to Albany where went 1-2 with a 2.41 ERA in 14 games with one save, fanning 46 batters in 59.2 innings.
Bob split the 1988 season with Albany and Columbus. He posted a 6-3 record (2.72 ERA) at Albany in 34 games (31 relief), earning six saves, and fanned 62 batters over 92.2 innings. He was promoted to Columbus and made six appearances (all relief), going 0-0 with a 2.37 ERA, registering a save and striking out five batters in 19 innings.
Bob attended East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina."
-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide
STEVE ADKINS (1989 Yankee Minor League Pitcher of the Year)
"Steve began the 1989 season with the Class-A Ft. Lauderdale Yankees of the Florida State League. He went 3-3 (2.36 ERA) in 11 appearances (4 GS) and fanned 48 batters in 45.2 innings (9.46 K/9 IP). Steve finished four of seven games as a reliever.
He was promoted to the AA Albany-Colonie Yankees of the Eastern League on May 29. He was 12-1 in 16 games (all starts), leading the Eastern League in ERA (2.07) and shutouts (5). He finished second on the squad in complete games (7) and strikeouts (132). Steve averaged 10.10 K/9 IP) over 117.2 innings.
Steve was named the left-handed starter on the Eastern League All-Star team. He was chosen Topps Minor League Player of the Month for the Eastern League for July and was the Yankees' Jack Butterfield Minor League Pitcher of the Month for both June and July. Steve was unanimously voted the Yankees Minor League Pitcher of the Year, the second consecutive left-handed pitcher (third overall) to win the award since its inception in 1980.
He signed a contract for the 1990 season.
Steve was obtained by the Yankees as a 15th round pick in the regular phase of the June 1986 free agent draft. He was signed by Yankee scout Meade Palmer. He began his pro career with the Class-A Oneonta Yankees of the New York-Penn League and was 8-2 (1.68 ERA) in 14 games (12 starts) with two complete games and a shutout. He fanned 74 batters in 80.1 innings (8.29 K/9 IP). Steve earned one save in two relief appearances.
He spent time with both the Class-A Prince William Cannons of the Carolina League and Ft. Lauderdale in 1987. He was 9-8 with Prince William with a 4.82 ERA in 21 appearances (20 starts) and fanned 84 batters in 115.2 innings. At Ft. Lauderdale, he went 1-1 with a 4.64 ERA in five appearances (three starts) with seven strikeouts in 21.1 innings.
Steve spent the entire 1988 season with Prince William and was 6-4 (3.34 ERA) in 31 games, completing two of his six starts with a shutout. He fanned 92 batters in 94.1 innings (8.78 K/9 IP).
Steve graduated from DeKalb (IL) High School, where he played baseball, football and basketball. He earned a B.S. in mechanical engineering upon graduation in 1986 from the University of Pennsylvania, where he played baseball and football. Steve enjoys golf, backgammon and reading."
-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide
MARK LEITER
"Leiter was signed by the Yankees as a free agent on September 29, 1988 after he was released by the Baltimore Orioles on June 13. He was signed by Yankee vice-president George Bradley and was recommended by Yankee scout Joe DiCarlo.
He began the season with Class-A Ft. Lauderdale and went 2-2 with a 1.53 ERA (35.1 IP, 6 ER) in six appearances (four starts) and pitched a complete game. Mark struck out 22 in 35.1 innings. He was promoted to AAA Columbus on May 9 and went 9-6 with a 5.00 ERA (90 IP, 50 ER) in 22 games, fanning 70 batters. He registered the fifth best strikeout average (8.61 K/9 IP) among International League relievers. Leiter signed a contract for the 1990 season.
Leiter was selected by the Orioles in the 4th round of the January 1983 draft. He began his pro career with Bluefield (Rookie League) exclusively as a starter, making six appearances (2 CG). He fanned 35 batters over 36.2 innings (8.59 K/9 IP). Leiter was promoted to Class-A Hagerstown where he went 1-5 with a 7.25 ERA (36 IP) in eight starts.
He spent the entire 1984 season at Hagerstown and compiled an 8-13 record with a 5.62 ERA in 27 games (24 starts). He threw five complete games and a shutout and struck out 105 over 139.1 innings.
Mark split the 1985 season with Hagerstown and AA Charlotte. He was 2-8 (3.46 ERA) at Hagerstown in 34 appearances (6 GS, 1 CG), earned eight saves in 28 relief outings, and fanned 82 batters over 83.1 innings (8.66 K/9 IP). He was promoted to Charlotte and made five appearances (all relief), going 0-1 with a 1.50 ERA, earned a save and fanned eight batters in six innings. At Charlotte, he led the league's pitchers in double plays.
He spent the 1986-88 seasons on the disabled list with right shoulder problems and underwent three operations in a 17-month period. The first came in June 1986 when Mark had arthroscopic surgery on his right shoulder. In November of 1986 he again underwent right shoulder surgery, and in November of 1987 had a second arthroscopic procedure on his right shoulder.
Mark attended Ramapo State (Mahwah, NJ) and Connors State (Warner, OK) colleges. He is the brother of Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Al Leiter."
-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide
ALAN MILLS
"Alan opened the 1989 season with the Class-A Ft. Lauderdale Yankees of the Florida State League, appearing in 22 games, all in relief. He was 1-4 with six saves and a 3.77 ERA over 31 innings, finished 15 of his 22 games and earned six saves. Alan did not allow a home run and fanned 25 batters.
He was quickly promoted to the Class-A Prince William Yankees of the Carolina League on June 22 and compiled a 0.91 ERA, second lowest on the club. Alan fanned an impressive 44 batters over 39.2 innings (9.98 K/9 IP), giving him the second best strikeouts per inning ratio among Carolina League relievers. Living up to the definition of a stopper, he finished all 26 games in which he appeared. He had a .164 (22-for-134) opponents batting average against and finished third among the league's relievers for fewest baserunners per nine innings (9.07). He signed a contract for the 1990 season.
Alan was the California Angels' 1st round draft pick in the secondary phase of the June 1986 free agent draft. He was 6-6 with Salem in his first year of professional baseball. Alan was acquired by the Yankees organization on June 22, 1987 and spent the year with the Prince William Yankees. He was 2-11 with a save and a 6.09 ERA over 85.2 innings.
He spent the entire 1988 season with Prince William, pitching 93.2 innings and fanning 59 batters. He appeared in 42 games (5 GS) and was 3-8 with four saves and a 4.13 ERA.
Alan attended Tuskegee University following his graduation from Kathleen (FL) High School. He enjoys fishing."
-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide
JOHN RAMOS
"Ramos had an outstanding season in 1989 as the starting catcher for the Albany-Colonie Yankees. He hit .273 over 105 games with 21 doubles, nine home runs and 60 RBIs. He ranked second on the club in doubles and led the club with 78 games caught. John was named to the Eastern League All-Star team and captured the game's MVP award. He signed a contract for the 1990 season.
Selected by the Yankees in the 5th round of the June 1986 free agent draft, Ramos was signed by Yankee Director of Scouting Brian Sabean and recommended by Yankee scouts Greg Orr and Bill Livesey. He played three games with Oneonta in '86, going 4-for-8 with two doubles and a triple, then appeared in 54 games at Ft. Lauderdale, hitting .266.
In 1987 Ramos spent a full season at Prince William, hitting .217 over 76 games. He spent the majority of the 1988 season with Prince William. John hit .304 over 109 games with 18 doubles, two triples, eight home runs and 57 RBIs, caught in 96 games and led Carolina League catchers in errors (25). He was promoted to Albany where he hit .222 over 21 games, playing 12 games at third.
John attended Stanford University and is a graduate of Henry B. Plant High School in Tampa where current major leaguers Dwight Gooden and Wade Boggs attended."
-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide
"Named to Eastern League All-Star team, 1989."
-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide
WILLIE SMITH
"Smith began the 1989 season with the Class-A Salem (VA) Buccaneers, the Pittsburgh Pirates affiliate in the Carolina League. He was 4-5 with a 2.94 ERA in 23 appearances (nine starts) and fanned 58 batters in 64.1 innings (8.1 K/9 IP). Smith finished 13 of 14 games as a reliever, earning four saves. He was promoted to the AA Harrisburg Senators of the Eastern League and went 3-0 in 12 games, fanning 21 batters in 18.1 innings (10.3 K/9 IP).
Overall in 1989, Willie fanned 79 batters over 82.2 innings (8.6 K/9 IP). Over his four years in the minor leagues, he has amassed 191 strikeouts over 192.1 innings (8.9 K/9 IP), just shy of one strikeout per inning. Willie was obtained by the Yankees along with pitcher Jeff Robinson from the Pirates in December 1989 in exchange for catcher Don Slaught. He signed a contract for the 1990 season.
Willie was signed by the Pirates organization as a non-drafted free agent in July 1986 and began his pro career with Bradenton in the Gulf Coast League. In 1987, he struck out a combined 51 batters in 39.2 innings (11.6 K/9 IP) with Bradenton (Rookie League) and Watertown (short-season Class-A). Willie was promoted from Bradenton to Watertown on August 8.
He spent the entire 1988 season with the Class-A Augusta Pirates of the South Atlantic League. He was 1-4 with a 2.98 ERA with six saves and 48 strikeouts in 48.1 innings (8.9 K/9 IP) in 30 appearances (one start, 29 in relief).
Willie was on the disabled list from June 12-July 15 with a ruptured artery in his right bicep. He struck out a season high four twice: on April 13 against Myrtle Beach (1.2 IP) and on August 16 against Spartanburg (4 IP). Willie earned his only win of the season on August 16, his longest outing of the year and final relief appearance of '88. His only start came in his final appearance of the season on August 22 (second game) against Sumter; he was the losing pitcher in an 8-0 Augusta loss to Sumter.
Willie graduated from Savannah [GA] High School where he played baseball, basketball and football. He enjoys pool, basketball and watching horror films."
-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide
VAN SNIDER
"Snider spent the majority of the 1989 season with the Reds' AAA affiliate Nashville. With the Sounds, he hit .222 with 17 doubles, nine triples, 12 home runs and 64 RBIs, playing in 119 games, and was 7-for-7 in stolen base attempts. Snider led the club in triples, RBIs and strikeouts (117), was third in at-bats (442) and fourth in games played.
He had two brief stints with Cincinnati: from June 12-22 (1-for-3, .333) and from July 22-30 (0-for-4), combining to go 1-for-7 in the big leagues. Van captured American Association Batter of the Week honors from July 9-15, hitting .400 (8-for-20) with three home runs and seven RBIs. He had a streaky August and hit only .231 (28-for-121) but had five home runs, 17 RBIs and a season best eight-game hitting streak (August 3-10), going 13-33 (.394) as opposed 15-for-88 (.170) the rest of the month.
Van did not hit a home run in his first 132 at-bats, then hit 12 from May 22 on. He had one multi-homer game (July 14 at Buffalo) and 10 of his 12 circuit clouts came off right-handed pitching, with eight of his 12 coming at home. Van had 22 multi-hit games and 17 multi-RBI games.
He was traded to the Yankees from the Reds along with pitcher Tim Leary in December 1989 in exchange for first baseman Hal Morris and pitcher Rodney Imes. He signed a contract for the 1990 season.
Snider was signed in November 1981 as an undrafted free agent by the Kansas City Royals organization, where he spent his first six professional seasons. He led his league in fielding and/or assists in three of those six seasons (Pioneer League in 1982, Southern League in 1984 and 1986).
In 1982 with Butte, Van was fourth in the Pioneer League with 53 RBIs and was fourth again in 1983 with 94 for Charleston in the South Atlantic League. He missed half the 1985 season with a broken left thumb and at Memphis in 1986 had 26 homers (fourth in the Southern League) and 81 RBIs.
Van was traded to the Cincinnati Reds organization for pitcher Jeff Montgomery on February 15, 1988. He made a good first impression at Nashville, earning team MVP honors and a spot on the American Association All-Star team. He led the league with 23 homers, was second with 152 hits and fourth with a .493 slugging percentage. Baseball America gave Van its Star of Stars award for the top overall statistics in the league and named him one of the league's top ten prospects. He was Player of the Week (August 7-13) when he hit .429 with two home runs, seven RBIs and eight runs scored. During an 11-game September trial with Cincinnati, Van recorded his first major league hit off Greg Harris of San Diego on September 19 and his first major league homer off Rich Reuschel on September 21.
Van is a 1981 graduate of Shades Valley High School where he played against future major leaguers Jeff Brantley, Jay Tibbs and Dana Williams. He also played Little League ball.
Van enjoys watching motorcycle racing and basketball. The most dramatic moment he ever witnessed: Tom Browning's perfect game while a member of the Reds."
-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide
"Tied for Pioneer League lead in double plays by an outfielder (2), 1982.
Led Southern League outfielders in double plays (7), 1983.
Tied for Southern League lead in intentional walks (9), 1986.
Led American Association in total bases (259), 1988.
Tied for American Association lead in intentional walks (9), 1988."
-1990 New York Yankees Information Guide
