It was obvious that in order to maximize their chances of winning another World Series, the New York Yankees needed to make some personnel changes this winter. They haven’t even been to one since they won the Fall Classic last year, so forget about winning one. Though they have undoubtedly been close, the American League Championship Series has been the ceiling for the majority of the past ten years.
This offseason, the Yankees went all out. They signed Marcus Stroman to add another star to their rotation, made a deal with the Boston Red Sox to get Alex Verdugo, and pulled off a blockbuster trade for Juan Soto. Although the roster is improved by those additions, New York is still searching for a big play.
They were connected to more spectacular deals that included the acquisition of former Cy Young winner Corbin Burnes of the Milwaukee Brewers and Chicago White Sox star Dylan Cease. But none of those deals ever happened because the Yankees refused to give up on their best prospect, Spencer Jones. Being one of the non-roster invitees who will be with the squad during Spring Training, New York will have a close look at the 22-year-old outfielder.
After cutting, Jones made it up to Double-A in his first full professional season.At the High Single-A level, he hit 268/.337/.450 with 13 home runs and 56 RBI in 100 games. The 6’6″ slugger has raised high expectations for himself by being compared to Aaron Judge. His influence was a big factor in the Yankees’ failure to acquire one of the greatest pitchers in the league this summer, so those expectations will only rise.
Although Jones’ MLB debut is probably a few years off, Spring Training will provide the team and fans with a fantastic chance to witness what he can do in the face of tougher competition. His timing for a call-up might swiftly alter if he does well.
