Top Yankees prospect sent to Tampa for seasoning

By Michael Martinez

Gary Sanchez, widely considered to be the Yankees' top hitting prospect, had been sent back to the organization's minor league facility in Tampa. Sanchez, an 18-year-old catching prospect, was demoted from Low-A affiliate in Charleston for attitude problems, the New York Daily News reported. Tampa Yankees manager Luis Sojo said he doesn’t know much about Sanchez but said his demotion will help him. “I know he has a great talent,” he said. “He’s learning how to play the game and conduct himself on and off the field.” Sanchez, ranked the Yankees' No. 2 prospect by Baseball America, was a part of numerous incidents in Charleston. He refused to enter one game as a replacement, and, in a different game, refused to catch for a pitcher in the bullpen. “This is kind of like a punishment for him,” Sojo said. “But he’s going to be O.K. and learn how to conduct himself.” The Daily News reported Sanchez has become unhappy with his slow start this season. He’s hitting .238 with four home runs and has lost playing time. Tampa second baseman Walter Ibarra, who has been with the Yankees since 2009, said the minors can be a tough place for a teenager. “It’s hard sometimes when you’re young,” he said. “You need to learn.” Ibarra said it’s important to look to teammates for instruction. As a third-year player, he said he tries to pick up teammates all the time. “I try to talk to everybody and say ‘Come on, wake up,’” he said. Sojo said at this level, he doesn’t deal with many attitude issues. “This is advanced A ball,” he said. “You’re a professional now. You need to know how to conduct yourself.”