New York Yankees: Ben Gamel Wins 2016 International League MVP
Adam Hunger, USATSI

For the past month, everyone has been talking about the New York Yankees’ future and how bright it’s looking. Ben Gamel only adds to that excitement.

After a strong 2016 campaign with the New York Yankees’ Triple-A affiliate, the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, Ben Gamel has earned the 2016 International League Player of the Year award. Gamel’s MVP award is the third in SWB’s franchise history.

In 115 games, the 24-year-old batted a solid .309 while launching six round-trippers and knocking in an impressive 51 runs. He also collected 148 total hits.

The Florida native was selected in the 10th round of the 2010 MLB Amateur Draft out of Bishop Kenney High School.

Gamel — along with Gary Sanchez, Aaron Judge, and Tyler Austin — was one the main catalysts behind another successful season in Scranton. The RailRiders’ magic number has dwindled down to four as they are looking to clinch the International North division for a second straight season.

With September call-ups just days away, everyone is expecting Gamel’s name to be called as the next “Baby Bomber.”

He did, in fact, make his MLB debut back in May as a defensive replacement. However, he only recorded eight at-bats, registering a hit and a walk.

NEXT: Playoffs Or Not, 2016 Screams ‘Astounding Success’