Payton Soske is a hard-throwing Columbia bullpen weapon with MLB upside
In the 2026 season, Columbia RHP Payton Soske emerged as a high-leverage reliever after returning from injury, posting a 3.26 ERA with 26 strikeouts, 2 saves, and a 1.19 WHIP in 19.1 innings before signing with the Yankees in July 2026. At 6-foot-4 and 230 pounds, he brings power stuff, including a fastball that reportedly touched 96.4 mph, plus a strikeout-heavy profile that can shorten games. The big selling point: he’s already shown pro-level arm strength and late-inning poise, which makes him a fit for teams needing impact relief rather than a long development project.
