Iván Nova, a former Yankee pitcher, had a notable career marred by injuries and inconsistency. He started 118 games for the Yankees and had a strong early promise, growing up in the Dominican Republic as a Yankees fan. Scouts initially overlooked him until he developed physically and showed pitching potential. Despite being traded to the Pirates in 2016, injuries kept Nova from reaching the heights expected of him, resulting in a career that, while productive, left fans questioning what could have been.
He quickly drew the attention of Red Sox scout Johnny DePuglia... "I really didn't want to sign with Boston," he later remarked to ESPN's Jorge Arangure Jr., referencing his family's pinstripe pride.
Despite all he accomplished, injuries and inconsistency prevented Nova from reaching his full potential at a time when the Yankees were in desperate need of high-level performers.
At 15, now well on his way to his ultimate 6-foot-4 frame, Nova tried his hand at pitching.
Despite Nova's fastball topping out at only 86-89 mph, Mata saw enough in his ability to throw strikes and potential for physical development.
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