Drafted in the 17th round (503rd overall) by the Los Angeles Angels in 2004.
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RHP Ryan Aldridge has one of the best arms in the state, but it wasn't clear if he'd be available for the draft. The Middle Georgia JC ace, who runs his sinking fastball consistently into the low 90s, was under control to the Yankees as a 26th-round draft-and-follow.
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Aldridge was a Wayne County High (Jesup, Ga.) and Middle Georgia JC teammate of Barret Browning, who ranks No. 29 on this list. It was Browning, not Aldridge, whom scouts came to see when they were teenagers, but Aldridge steadily has built his own reputation as a bullpen prospect. He dominated low Class A hitters in 2006. His fastball sits at 92 mph and can run it up into the mid-90s, showing some sink and late life. His 78-79 mph slider has three-quarter tilt. It's a plus-plus pitch at times, albeit inconsistent. Aldridge doesn't repeat his delivery and has below-average command. He cuts his delivery off, losing extension and leaving his stuff up. Shoulder problems have hampered his development and 2006 was the first season he stayed healthy. He has a future as a middle reliever or setup man. He's headed back to high Class A after making five appearances there at the end of last season.
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