Scouting grades (courtesy of MLB Pipeline): Fastball: 60 | Slider: 55 | Changeup: 45 | Control: 50 | Overall: 45
The Yankees took James Pazos in the 12th round of 2012 draft out of the University of San Diego, and signed him for $100,000. They sent him to A- ball in Staten Island, and Pazos immediately started his rise up the organization ladder as a left-handed reliever. Although he was never really hyped as a top prospect (few relievers are), he pitched well at every stop and kept on climbing.
He made a good impression in spring training last year and Hal Steinbrenner even included him on his list of “untouchables” after the July trade deadline.