Yanks prospect Severino handling Triple-A

SCRANTON, Pa. -- The Yankees have not announced their rotation after this weekend's series in Minnesota, and the team has discussed the possibility of adding a spot starter when the team begins a four-game series against the Rangers.

If New York does add another starter, Luis Severino -- the club's No. 1 prospect and 16th overall as rated by MLB.com -- could certainly be a major candidate.

Severino took the mound Friday for Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre in his first start since the birth of daughter, Abigail. He had not pitched in a game since July 12, and although he was a bit rusty at the start of the game, he settled in for a solid outing. He allowed three runs on six hits in five innings with four strikeouts and two walks.

Overall, Severino has been impressive during his time in Triple-A.

Severino improved his record to 6-0 with a 2.11 ERA in 10 starts. Like most pitchers, Severino points out that hitters at this level in the Minors have more discipline at the plate compared to lower levels, giving him a challenge he is relishing every game.

"Every time you go out there, you learn," Severino said. "It's the same baseball. If you get ahead in the count, you're going to have success."

Scott Aldred, the RailRiders' pitching coach, has been impressed with the way Severino has attacked hitters and stayed aggressive in the strike zone.

"I think it's pretty impressive," Aldred said. "Usually there's a little hesitation to throw the ball over the plate sometimes when the guys come up from Double-A.

"It hasn't been the case with him. He goes right after guys. He trusts what he's doing and he's got a pretty good feel for pitching, too. He's reading swings on the fly and he's doing a nice job."

While Severino figures to be a strong candidate to receive a start in New York, the Yankees still could go several different routes. Bryan Mitchell figures to be another strong candidate, however, he is scheduled to start Saturday for Scranton.

Whatever the Yankees decide to do, Severino has been showing that he will soon be ready for a shot at the next level.

"My job is to be on the mound trying to do a good job," Severino said. "It's easy, I have to keep my mind on my game."