Right-handed pitcher Ty Hensley was drafted by the New York Yankees in the first round of the 2012 First-Year Player Draft with the 30th overall pick out of Santa Fe High School in Edmond, Oklahoma for $1,200,000. After throwing 12 innings in his first professional season in 2012, Hensley missed all of 2013 due to injury.
After several surgeries and a year away from the game Hensley made his return in 2014, splitting the season between the Gulf Coast Yankees and the Staten Island Yankees. In seven games with the Gulf Coast Yankees he threw 19 innings, striking out 23 batters and walking nine. Hensley earned a promotion to Staten Island on his 21st birthday. In his first taste of Single-A ball he started four games, throwing 11.2 innings, striking out 17 and walking just 2.
Hensley returned to form in 2014, with his fastball topping out at 96 miles per hour and sitting in the low 90s. His command and control improved to the point where even when he does not have his best stuff he can still throw pitches by hitters. In addition to the fastball he throws a curveball and a changeup. Chances are Hensley will develop a bit more velocity on his fastball as he continues to grow into his body.
Ty earned praised from coaches in 2014, “He’s had some setbacks over the past few years, but he’s come along really well, the ball comes out of his hand with some life,” according to Staten Island pitching coach Tim Norton. Just as important as his physical tools is his mentality and work ethic. “He’s a kid who shows up, does his work and does things the right way. I’m happy to see him head in the right direction,” Norton said.
Norton summarized Hensley’s potential perfectly during the season, “I’d stack him up to almost anyone. The kid’s got a bright future and all he needs is to put together some time and he’s going to make a run at it.”
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