Yankees take righty Palladino in fifth round

After drafting three straight position players, the Yankees went to the mound with their fifth-round pick, selecting right-handed pitcher David Palladino in the First-Year Player Draft on Friday.

Palladino began his college career last year at South Carolina-Upstate and pitched in 10 games before undergoing surgery to repair a tendon in his knee. He then transferred to Howard, where he played this season.

Palladino's fastball sits in the low-90s, occasionally touching 95 mph. Because his fastball is mostly straight, scouts say it is critical for Palladino to use his 6-foot-9, 230-pound frame to create a good downhill angle. He also throws a changeup, curveball and slider.

Despite his size, Palladino has an easy delivery and commands the ball well. He is committed to LSU.