The Yankees selected shortstop Dax Kilby with the No. 39 overall pick in the first round of the 2025 MLB Draft.
Kilby, 18, is No. 62 in MLB.com's prospect rankings.
From Newnan High School in Georgia, Kilby signed with Clemson University's 2025 recruiting class before the Yanks took him with their first selection of the draft in the Competitive Balance Round A. The pick carries a $2,509,500 slot value.
The 6-foot-2, 190-pounder is a left-handed batter and right-handed thrower.
"One of the more polished high school bats available, Kilby has a track record of producing against quality competition on the showcase circuit," said MLB.com's scouting report of Kilby. "There are questions about his long-term defensive home, but his hitting ability could land him as high as the second round if he's signable away from a Clemson commitment. He led Newnan HS to the Georgia state 5-A championship this spring, the Cougars' first title in 34 years.
"Kilby has a quick and relatively compact left-handed stroke and a mature approach. He doesn't stray from the strike zone too often and makes consistent contact while looking to drive the ball from gap to gap. He has plenty of room to add strength to his projectable 6-foot-2 frame and should grow into at least average power.
"Though Kilby has plus straight-line speed, he plays as more of an average to solid runner. Bothered by shoulder issues early in his high school career, he has a funky arm action and can't make all the throws necessary from shortstop. He'll get a look at second base and also could wind up in left field, though he still may provide enough offense to profile at the less challenging position."
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