Track Record: In 2021, Sweeney was the Yankees' first-rounder out of Eastern Illinois, the same school that's produced big leaguers Tim Bogar, Kevin Seitzer, Randy Myers and Nick Maton. Sweeney spent his entire first season at Low-A Tampa, then moved to High-A Hudson Valley for most of the 2022 season. He reached Double-A for Somerset's run to the Eastern League championship.
Scouting Report: Sweeney doesn't wow with any one tool, but he's decent enough across the board to carve out a big league career. He improved his command of the strike zone in the second half of the season and has begun hitting balls higher and with more authority. He posted solid exit velocity data as well, with an average of 86.2 mph and a whiff rate of just 24%. Scouts see a player who will eventually be power over hit because of excellent bat speed, solid bat speed and contact skills but with a lofted path geared toward trying to take balls out of the yard. Though the swing itself is fine, some evaluators worry about Sweeney's overall adjustability because of stiff hands and actions. Defensively, he's should move around among shortstop, second and third and handle just about any routine play, though he is unlikely to stand out at any spot. He's a fringe-average runner.
The Future: After finishing the year in Double-A, Sweeney will return to the level in 2023. He's got a ceiling as an offensive-minded utilityman who sees a lot of playing time.
Scouting Grades Hit: 45. Power: 50. Speed: 45. Fielding: 45. Arm: 50.
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