Yankees Select High School Shortstop Dax Kilby 39th Overall

Dax Kilby, an 18-year-old shortstop from Newnan High School in Georgia, was selected by the New York Yankees as their first-round pick (39th overall) in the 2025 MLB Draft. Kilby, who had committed to Clemson University, is expected to sign with the Yankees, forgoing his college career, after completing a physical at the team's Tampa facility. He expressed excitement about joining the Yankees, calling them the "pinnacle of Major League Baseball" and praised the organization following a private workout that solidified his desire to play for them. The Yankees' vice president of amateur scouting, Damon Oppenheimer, highlighted Kilby's strong-bodied, athletic profile, left-handed hitting, speed, and developing power, while expressing confidence in his potential to remain at shortstop despite some concerns about his throwing mechanics. Kilby posted impressive senior year stats, including a .495 batting average with five home runs, 42 RBIs, and 15 stolen bases, and played a key role in leading Newnan to its first Georgia 5A state title in 34 years. The Yankees view Kilby as a valuable addition to their tradition of drafting high school shortstops and are eager to begin his development within their organization.