Yanks' Lagrange flashes triple-digit heat in Spring Breakout
SARASOTA, Fla. -- There was an audible “Ooh” from the crowd at Ed Smith Stadium, and Carlos Lagrange quickly glanced beyond the right-field wall, checking the velocity of the pitch he’d just thrown in Saturday’s 5-4 Spring Breakout loss to the Orioles. It had registered in the triple digits, and
SARASOTA, Fla. -- There was an audible “Ooh” from the crowd at Ed Smith Stadium, and Carlos Lagrange quickly glanced beyond the right-field wall, checking the velocity of the pitch he’d just thrown in Saturday’s 5-4 Spring Breakout loss to the Orioles.
It had registered in the triple digits, and the 6-foot-7 Yankees right-hander grinned. That was exactly what he’d hoped to showcase.
“This was a really big opportunity for me,” Lagrange said through an interpreter. “It meant a lot. It was an opportunity to prove to myself and to everybody else that I’m a good pitcher and that I can throw strikes.”
Rated as the Yankees’ No. 19 prospect by MLB Pipeline, the 21-year-old Lagrange’s big arm impressed in a four-inning performance against Baltimore’s top farmhands. He allowed two runs (one earned) and two hits, including Vance Honeycutt’s inside-the-park home run in the fourth inning.
📩 SUBSCRIBE TO THE BASEBALL TRAVELER NEWSLETTER
Lagrange settled in after experiencing first-inning jitters, coming after he permitted a leadoff single to Enrique Bradfield Jr. Lagrange threw errantly on a pickoff attempt down the right-field line, seeing Bradfield advance to third base, then uncorked a wild pitch that sent Bradfield home.
But Lagrange then retired the following 11 batters, two via strikeout, and did not walk any -- which represents an important next step in his development.
He issued 20 walks in 21 innings last season, when he posted a 6.86 ERA in nine games (eight starts) for the Florida Complex League Yankees and Single-A Tampa.
Asked how he recovered following Bradfield’s race around the bases, Lagrange replied: “I just tried to do what I always do -- try to keep the same rhythm going. The same things that we always do when we train in the complex. This is baseball. Things are going to happen.”
Signed for $10,000 out of the Dominican Republic in February 2022, Lagrange missed most of last season with back inflammation. He was much sharper in the Arizona Fall League, where he made strides he hopes to carry into the season.
“We have a lot of good pitchers in our organization, so when I got the news [about starting the Spring Breakout game], it felt incredible,” Lagrange said.
The Vandy boys
There was a Vanderbilt presence to the Spring Breakout game right to the finish, as the Yankees’ Spencer Jones and Greysen Carter posed for photos at home plate with fellow alums Enrique Bradfield Jr. and Patrick Reilly of the Orioles.
A fifth Vandy alum, Bryce Cunningham, was tossing in the bullpen after surrendering Leandro Arias’ walk-off hit. The Yankees’ loss meant Jones (Yanks' No. 3) won’t cash in his friendly wager with Bradfield for a medium-rare steak, but Jones said the experience was still a good time.
“Oh dude, it’s awesome when I get to see my former college teammates, especially now in professional baseball,” Jones said. “We competed against each other so many times, even at school, so this is the greatest thing ever.”
Jones, who went 1-for-2 with a double and a run scored, lauded Carter as “one of the strongest people I’ve ever seen in my life in the weight room” and said Cunningham (Yanks' No. 6) is “your typical SEC competitor; he’s going to come right after you and throw all his pitches for strikes.”
Jesús Rodríguez knocks in Spencer Jones 👏@NYYPlayerDev | #SpringBreakout pic.twitter.com/071JFNpeVl
— New York Yankees (@Yankees) March 15, 2025
As for Bradfield, who dashed around the bases to score Baltimore’s first run of the night, Jones offered this scouting report: “I think it’s a well-known fact that Enrique Bradfield can run.” (Performances like Saturday’s should make that clear to a larger audience.)
An unofficial debut
Ben Hess was the Yankees’ first-round selection (26th overall) in last year’s MLB Draft out of the University of Alabama, and Saturday’s contest marked the 22-year-old’s first time pitching in front of a crowd in a professional uniform.
“It was super cool to get to throw in front of fans, seeing another uniform in the box,” said Hess, the Yankees' No. 4 prospect. “I would have liked it to go a little better, but it was a great time.”
Entering for the fifth inning, Hess retired the first four batters he faced, including a nifty sliding stop by third baseman Jesus Rodriguez that robbed Jud Fabian of a hit.
Smooth play by Jesús Rodríguez 🔥@NYYPlayerDev | #SpringBreakout pic.twitter.com/SCKvqRpoFg
— New York Yankees (@Yankees) March 15, 2025
Hess walked one and struck out three; he was also struck in the left calf by a Bradfield comebacker that led to the Orioles scoring a run in the sixth, saying he’d likely be sore for a couple of days.
Otherwise, Hess said the adjustment from college to pro life has been “really fun,” and that his focus for the upcoming season will be on winning games.
“I think sometimes that can get a little overlooked going through the development system,” Hess said. “First and foremost, I want to get some wins and throw well, [and] make all my starts.”
Senior Reporter Bryan Hoch has covered the Yankees for MLB.com since 2007.
Kloud 7 Yacht Club Headlines Keesler Federal Park Upgrades for 2025
BILOXI, MS – The Biloxi Shuckers have announced that the former Kloud 7 Sky Box at Keesler Federal Park will undergo extensive renovations prior to the Shuckers’ 10th anniversary season in 2025 and be renamed the Kloud 7 Yacht Club. The upgrades continue a multi-year renovation at Keesler Federal Park,
Shuckers Announce 2025 Promotions, Giveaway and Theme Nights
BILOXI, MS – The Biloxi Shuckers have announced daily promotions, giveaways and theme nights for the team’s 10th anniversary season, set to begin at Keesler Federal Park on Tuesday, April 8 at 6:05 p.m. against the Columbus Clingstones. The promotional schedule is highlighted by multiple premium giveaways, including a Shuckers
Shuckers-Pearl River Set to Meet in Exhibition Clash on Wednesday, April 2 in Biloxi
BILOXI, MS – The Biloxi Shuckers have announced a 7-inning exhibition game against the Pearl River Community College Wildcats on Wednesday, April 2 at Keesler Federal Park at 6:35 p.m. The match-up marks the third consecutive year that the two teams will meet in a 7-inning exhibition game and will
Spring Notebook Part II | Time to Breakout!
From March 13-20, the “Voice of the Shuckers”, Javik Blake, will be at Brewers Spring Training in Phoenix, Arizona. Including interviews and videos across the Shuckers' social media channels, he’ll also publish Spring Training Notebooks throughout the trip, highlighting the top moments, quotes and videos as the team gets set
Shuckers Spring Training Notebook Part 1
From March 13-20, the “Voice of the Shuckers”, Javik Blake, will be at Brewers Spring Training in Phoenix, Arizona. Including interviews and videos across the Shuckers' social media channels, he’ll also publish Spring Training Notebooks throughout the trip, highlighting the top moments, quotes and videos as the team gets set
9 Former Shuckers Selected for Brewers 2025 Spring Breakout Roster
BILOXI, MS – Major League Baseball and Minor League Baseball announced today on MLB Network the Milwaukee Brewers roster for the 2nd annual Spring Breakout, with nine former Biloxi Shuckers named to the roster. The Brewers' top prospects will compete on Sunday, March 16 at 6:40 p.m. CT against the
Beach Chickens, King Cakes Set to Return in 2025, First Promotions Revealed
BILOXI, MS – The Biloxi Shuckers have announced today that the Biloxi Beach Chickens and Biloxi King Cakes will return in 2025, continuing after a highlight-filled 2024 season at Keesler Federal Park. The Shuckers will transform into the King Cakes on Saturday, April 12, Saturday, May 24 and Saturday, June
Single-Game Tickets Now On Sale for Shuckers 10th Anniversary Season
BILOXI, MS – The Biloxi Shuckers have announced that single-game tickets are now on sale for all 69 home games at Keesler Federal Park for the 2025 season, the team’s 10th-anniversary campaign. The Shuckers will begin their home slate on Tuesday, April 8 at 6:05 p.m. against the Columbus Clingstones.
National Anthem Tryouts Set for Saturday, March 22 at Keesler Federal Park
BILOXI, MS – The Biloxi Shuckers will be hosting auditions to perform the National Anthem during the 2025 season on Saturday, March 22 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Keesler Federal Park. Those wishing to audition can enter the ballpark and check in at the north gate. Performers are
Shuckers to Honor 10th Anniversary Season with Commemorative Logo
BILOXI, MS – In celebration of the Biloxi Shuckers' 10th season on the Coast, the team has announced a commemorative 10th-anniversary logo. The logo will appear on merchandise as well as the team’s home and blue alternate jerseys in 2025. Fans can purchase commemorative 10th-anniversary shirts in blue or coral
Battle at the Beach Returns to Keesler Federal Park with Top High School Talent
BILOXI, MS – The Biloxi Shuckers have announced that the Battle at the Beach High School Baseball Tournament will return to Keesler Federal Park for six games over three days featuring some of the top talent on the Coast. Games will take place on Friday, March 7, Thursday, March 13
Junior Journalism Program Returns for Shuckers' 10th Anniversary Season
BILOXI, MS – The Biloxi Shuckers are excited to announce the return of their Junior Journalism Program ahead of the team’s 10th anniversary season in 2025. The program, which began in 2024, is designed to highlight and promote the best student-led sports journalism on the Coast. Student organizations and individual
Keesler Federal Park Nominated as a USA Today Readers' Choice 10Best Minor League Ballpark
BILOXI, MS – USA TODAY announced today that the home ballpark of the Biloxi Shuckers, Keesler Federal Park, has been selected as a nominee for the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Award for Best Minor League Ballpark. Voting begins on Monday, February 17th at 11 a.m. CT and ends on
Shuckers Announce Front Office Promotions and Additions for 2025 Season
BILOXI, MS – The Biloxi Shuckers have announced multiple additions and promotions in preparation for the team’s 10th anniversary season, which begins on Friday, April 4 on the road against the Pensacola Blue Wahoos before the home opener on Tuesday, April 8 at 6:05 p.m. against the Columbus Clingstones at
Ayrault Returns as Manager, Brewers Announce Shuckers Complete 2025 Staff
BILOXI, MS – The Milwaukee Brewers have announced the coaching staff for the Biloxi Shuckers' 10th anniversary season in 2025, headlined by the return of Joe Ayrault as the team’s manager. Ayrault, entering his second season, will be joined by hitting coach Kevin Martir (1st season with Biloxi), pitching coach
Southern Miss, Nicholls Set to Meet in Biloxi for Hancock Whitney Classic
BILOXI, MS – The Biloxi Shuckers have announced that the Southern Miss Golden Eagles will return to Biloxi for a second consecutive season, taking on the Nicholls Colonels on Tuesday, March 25 at 6:05 p.m. as part of the Hancock Whitney Classic. Gates will open at 5:00 p.m. Southern Miss
Mississippi State Set to Return to Biloxi for Two-Game Hancock Whitney Classic
BILOXI, MS – The Biloxi Shuckers have announced that the Mississippi State Bulldogs will return to Biloxi for the 2025 Hancock Whitney Classic on Tuesday, March 11 at 6:00 p.m. and Wednesday, March 12 at 5:00 p.m. against the Old Dominion Monarchs and Nicholls Colonels. Gates will open one hour
Clubhouse Manager Craig Thomas, Groundskeeper Trey Bowman Earn Southern League Honors
BILOXI, MS – Minor League Baseball announced today that Biloxi Shuckers’ staff members, Craig Thomas and Trey Bowman, have been honored as the Southern League Home Clubhouse Manager of the Year and Head Groundskeeper of the Year. The pair becomes the first Shuckers clubhouse manager and groundskeeper to earn honors.
Pratt Earns MiLB Rawlings Gold Glove Award® at Shortstop
BILOXI, MS – Minor League Baseball and Rawlings Sporting Goods Company, Inc. announced on Monday that Biloxi Shuckers infielder Cooper Pratt was named the 2024 MiLB Rawlings Gold Glove Award® winner at shortstop. It marks the third consecutive year a Shuckers player has won the award, with Pratt joining Jeferson
Shuckers Announce Full Schedule, First Pitch Times for 10th Anniversary Season
BILOXI, MS – The Biloxi Shuckers, in conjunction with Minor League Baseball, have announced the team’s full 2025 schedule and home game times, which features 138 games, including 69 games at Keesler Federal Park during the Shuckers 10th anniversary season. Shuckers fans can click HERE to purchase a 2025 Shuck
Three Shuckers Selected for the 2024 Robin Yount Performance Awards
BILOXI, MS – The Milwaukee Brewers announced today that Biloxi Shuckers’ pitchers Craig Yoho and K.C. Hunt and shortstop Cooper Pratt have all been selected for the organization’s Robin Yount Performance Awards. Yoho and Hunt were named the Brewers Co-Minor League Pitchers of the Year while Pratt was named the
Ernesto Martinez Jr., Blake Holub Named Southern League All-Stars
BILOXI, MS – Minor League Baseball announced today that Biloxi Shuckers first-baseman Ernesto Martinez Jr. and reliever Blake Holub were named 2024 Southern League All-Stars. It marks the fifth time in franchise history that multiple Shuckers were named to the post-season All-Star team and the second consecutive season after a
Craig Yoho, Jacob Misiorowski Honored by Baseball America
BILOXI, MS – Baseball America announced today that Biloxi Shuckers’ pitchers Craig Yoho and Jacob Misiorowski earned end-of-season awards from the publication. Yoho was named a Baseball America First-Team Minor League Baseball All-Star and Misiorowski was named the publication’s Brewers Minor League Player of the Year. Yoho, the Brewers' eighth-round
LSU, Samford Set for Exhibition Game in Biloxi on November 3
BILOXI, MS – The Biloxi Shuckers have announced that the LSU Tigers and Samford Bulldogs will play a fall exhibition game as part of the Hancock Whitney Classic at Keesler Federal Park on Sunday, November 3. First pitch is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. and gates open at 10:00 a.m. The
Shuckers Eliminated from Playoffs with Game Three Loss in Montgomery
BILOXI, MS – The Biloxi Shuckers (1-2) were eliminated from the Southern League Playoffs with an 8-2 loss against the Montgomery Biscuits (2-1) in game three of the Southern League Division Series at Riverwalk Stadium on Friday night. The game ended the Shuckers’ first playoff appearance since they reached the