RHP Luke Greinke, Auburn University (380th Overall)

Luke Greinke, RHP
Auburn R/R, 6-1, 195
Hometown: Orlando, Fla.

STATUS: Signed

The younger brother of Kansas City Royals starter Zach Greinke, the New York Yankees’ 12th round draft choice, Luke Greinke, quickly signed. Through two months at Short-Season Staten Island, Greinke is winless in nine starts despite a respectable 4.01 ERA.

Greinke’s fastball (touches 96mph) is an above-average offering and has a developing changeup. His slider is his out pitch. With a violent delivery, similar to Scott Kazmir, Greinke hides the ball well but repeatability will be a concern. He was a superb two-way player in high school and boasts an athletic frame (6-1, 195).

In 2008, he posted a 4-4 record and 4.64 ERA at Auburn. Used as a reliever, Greinke allowed 63 hits in 54 1/3 innings (.293 BAA). He struggled with his control with 18 walks, nine wild pitches and seven hit batters.

After the 2007 season, Baseball America tabbed Greinke the top prospect to play in the Shenandoah Valley League. As a freshman, Greinke was Auburn’s closer.