Age: 22
Level: High-A
Position: Starting Pitcher
Bats/Throws: Right/Right
Height/Weight: 6’3″/175 pounds
Acquired: 2024 trade with the Brewers; Nick Mears to Milwaukee for Bradley Blalock and Yujaner Herrera.
Current BSB Ranking: 19
Previous BSB Ranking: 21
Pic Credit: Spokane Indians
Player Summary
Brief Summary
Acquired from the Brewers in the 2024 Nick Mears trade, Yujaner Herrera quickly became one of the Rockies’ most intriguing young pitching prospects. The 20-year-old posted a 3.31 ERA in six starts after the deal, flashing mid-90s velocity and a sharp slider. Tommy John surgery wiped out his 2025 season, but he returned in winter ball. If healthy, Herrera’s arsenal gives him mid-rotation upside, though he could also thrive as a power reliever.
More detailed breakdown
Acquired from the Brewers in an unexpected trade of Nick Mears back in 2024, Yujaner Herrera was a bit more of a mystery at just 20 years old and yet to reach Double-A. However, because of his youth and the perceived learning curve still ahead of him, Yujaner Herrera immediately looked like one of the best pitching prospects in the Rockies system. Herrera posted a 3.31 ERA in the Rockies system — albeit in just 6 starts — down the stretch post-trade, solidifying that status.
However, a fall Tommy John surgery would shelf the young Venezuelan arm for all of 2025, though Herrera did return this winter in the Venezuelan Winter League, where he gave us a mixed bag — a 1.54 ERA but more walks than strikeouts in 11.2 innings. Equipped with lively mid-90s velocity (up to 97) and a nasty tight slider, Herrera brings a strong floor as a power reliever. He has thrown a curveball and has a changeup established as his primary third pitch that could get outs. Throughout his career, Herrera has thrown strikes and looks to continue progressing as a pitcher but the quality of his arsenal will keep him relevant regardless. If all clicks for Herrera, he could be a legit mid-rotation starter. Expect Herrera to be eased back into action this year, with a possible assignment to Double-A Hartford. Written by Tyler Paddor.
Player Links
MLB.com player page | Fangraphs | Baseball Savant | Baseball Reference
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