Spencer Jones, the highly-touted Yankees prospect, continues to dazzle fans and scouts alike with his outstanding performance in Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. On Thursday afternoon, he put on an electrifying display by hitting three home runs in his first three at-bats, bringing his total to an impressive 13 home runs in just 19 games since his promotion from Double-A. This remarkable achievement has many speculating that Jones is solidifying his status as an untouchable player as the July 31 trade deadline approaches.
As Spencer Jones continues to showcase his incredible talent, his trade value is increasing daily. The Yankees will need to evaluate whether they believe this hot streak is sustainable. If they decide to hold onto the 24-year-old outfielder, the pressing question will be whether he is forcing his way onto the major league roster in The Bronx. Currently, the Yankees have a crowded outfield with Trent Grisham and Cody Bellinger occupying center field, and Jasson Domínguez and Bellinger filling the left field position.
There are whispers that the Yankees might entertain trading Jasson Domínguez if the right offer comes along, though this remains a long shot. Scouts have noted significant improvements in Jones's swing this season. Initially tweaking it during spring training and the early part of the season, he has now settled into a swing described by an American League scout as a “mirror image” of Aaron Judge. This adjustment has led to a breakout year for the left-handed slugger, especially after a less-than-stellar 2024 season.
“I believe he’s made some impressive adjustments this year,” an NL scout remarked recently. “He’s been focusing on using the entire field and not trying to pull every pitch or hit home runs. Instead, he’s allowing his strength and athleticism to shine through, which is a stark contrast to the approach he had last year.”
As the Yankees prepare for potential trades, their immediate focus also includes improving their bullpen. The team is expected to acquire one or two new relievers by the 6:01 p.m. deadline next Thursday. However, one of their top priorities remains getting Jonathan Loáisiga back on track. Currently, Loáisiga holds a 4.91 ERA and has surrendered seven home runs over 25 ¹/₃ innings. His inconsistency has made him a less reliable option in crucial late-game situations.
Despite these challenges, the Yankees are compelled to continue relying on Loáisiga due to the limited alternatives available. Manager Aaron Boone emphasized the need to find favorable matchups for Loáisiga to help him regain his form. “We need him to succeed for our bullpen to work effectively, especially with the recent attrition we’ve seen,” Boone stated. “His stuff is where it needs to be when he’s at his best, but he must improve his command and execution.”
With Spencer Jones's remarkable ascent in the Yankees' system and the ongoing challenges within the bullpen, the coming weeks will be critical for the franchise. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the situation unfolds as the trade deadline approaches and whether Jones can continue his impressive performance in Triple-A.
