After starting the season strong and showing he was ready for a bigger challenge, left-handed pitcher Griffin Herring has earned a promotion from the Tampa Tarpons to the High-A Hudson Valley Renegades. Ranked as Baseball America’s No. 30 prospect in the Yankees’ system, Herring’s consistent dominance early on has convinced the team to test his skills at a higher level. This move gives the Yankees a chance to see if his polished pitching can translate successfully against tougher competition.
However, Herring’s promotion comes with a significant downside for the team. The opening in Hudson Valley’s rotation appeared because of an injury to 2024 second-round draft pick Bryce Cunningham. Cunningham had been impressive in his first 42 innings at the level, posting a strong 2.14 ERA, but now he has been placed on the minor league’s vague seven-day injured list. The exact nature and severity of his injury remain unclear, leaving the Yankees and fans uncertain about when he might return.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Cunningham, Herring’s recent performances highlight why the Yankees are optimistic about his potential. In his latest outing with the Tampa Tarpons, Herring threw six no-hit innings with 10 strikeouts, lowering his ERA to an outstanding 1.21. His ability to strike out over a third of batters faced this season demonstrates a level of dominance that makes him one of the organization’s most promising pitching prospects.
While Cunningham’s injury is a setback, the Yankees’ 2024 draft strategy—focused heavily on pitching—appears to be bearing fruit. Despite some early challenges, including Thatcher Hurd’s season-ending surgery, the team’s emphasis on acquiring and developing arms is starting to pay off. The promotion of Herring is a testament to that approach, and he could play a pivotal role as the organization looks toward the trade deadline and beyond.
Looking ahead, the Yankees hope Herring’s continued progress helps them maintain their pitching depth and pushes their competitive narrative forward. With a stacked pitching system and opportunities opening up due to injuries, the team is positioned to capitalize on its prospects. Herring’s advancement marks a key moment in the development of the Yankees’ future rotation and overall roster building.
