New York Yankees prospect Spencer Jones has emerged as a central figure in trade deadline discussions after batting .400 with 13 home runs in 19 games since his Triple-A promotion. The 24-year-old outfielder\'s explosive performance has complicated the organization\'s deadline strategy, according to ESPN reporting.
Jones leads all minor league players with 29 home runs this season and maintains a 1.116 OPS across Double-A and Triple-A levels. The 6-foot-7 center fielder has drawn comparisons to Aaron Judge due to his size and power combination.
Yankees general manager Brian Cashman previously indicated the organization would be aggressive at the deadline, seeking starting pitching, bullpen depth, and infield help. Most prospects outside of shortstop George Lombard Jr. were considered available in trade discussions.
Despite his offensive surge, Jones carries significant contact issues that concern evaluators. His 31.7% strikeout rate between Double-A and Triple-A this season follows a 33.7% rate in Double-A last year.
\"He has tons of swing and miss,\" a National League executive told ESPN. \"When you have significant contact issues in the minor leagues, that\'s very scary.\"
Triple-A manager Shelley Duncan believes Jones has made meaningful adjustments to his swing mechanics and approach this season.
\"I\'ve never seen a player this talented before in my life,\" Duncan said. \"I think the person we\'re seeing right now is who he is.\"
The Yankees face a roster construction challenge with Jones, as they already carry multiple everyday-caliber outfielders. His recent performance has elevated his trade value while simultaneously making him more difficult to part with as the July 31 deadline approaches.