2009 New York Yankees Top Prospects

The New York Yankees are one of the MLB's most storied franchises. Their farm system has been in question in recent years, but they have a decent number of good prospects that could end up contributing to their team in the near future. Here is a look at the New York Yankees' best prospects for 2009.

1. Austin Jackson - OF

Austin Jackson is widely considered to be the Yankees' best prospect, and he is a solid player. Though he does not possess plus power, he has a great amount of speed, both on the basepaths and in the outfield. As he continues to develop, however, look for a little bit of power to come with the speed-making him a real threat when he hits the majors.

I believe that Austin Jackson's game will be very similar to Curtis Granderson when he hits the majors. He should patrol center field for the Yankees when he finally makes it up. Jackson has a great batting eye and will be a nice addition to the Yankees' roster.

2. Jesus Montero - C/1B

Montero is looking like the heir apparent when Jorge Posada finally decides to retire. Honestly, who knows how long that will take? Montero has a great power bat, as shown in his 18 home runs at Single-A last year. He also batted a stellar .326.

Montero has a physically-imposing frame, noted at 6'4", 225. Look for Montero to take over the catching duties for the Yankees around 2011 or 2012.

3. Andrew Brackman - RHP

Brackman is widely considered to be among the Yankees' best power arms. However, he had to get Tommy John Surgery done, leading many to question whether he can regain his former premier-prospect status.

He has a great fastball and curveball, and projects to be a top-of-the-rotation starter. Yankees fans better hope that he can come back from Tommy John stronger than ever.

4. Dellin Betances - RHP

Betances is a real strikeout monster, and along with Brackman, looks like a future top starter for the Yankees. Sure, his control is still a little out of whack, but he has plenty of time to get his control in line before he is recalled to the majors. Betances is a work-in-progress, but if everything breaks right for him, he could be up to the majors around 2011 or 2012 as a potential elite starter.

Other Yankees' Top Prospects:

- Humberto Sanchez, RHP

- Mark Melancon, RHP

- Austin Romine, C

- Brett Gardner, OF

- Kelvin DeLeon, OF