The New York Yankees may be considering a change to their roster. Jasson Dominguez’s return was cut short after being hit on the elbow in a game against the Texas Rangers. He is now facing a potential injured list stint.
Jones in the Frame After Dominguez Injury
The Yankees have just designated Randal Grichuk for assignment. While a return is possible, the team may have other plans. Max Schuemann is currently on the roster but doesn’t inspire much confidence.
One option for the Yankees is to promote Spencer Jones to the big leagues. Jones has a .242/.364/.538 slash line with seven home runs and 30 RBI in 26 games. He has struck out 37 times over 110 plate appearances.
Jones’ strikeout rate has decreased in the last couple of weeks. He is currently performing very well.
Unlike Dominguez, Jones is considered a good defender. While Dominguez played left field, there is more confidence in Jones defensively. Jones can also give Aaron Judge some days off.
What is Holding the Yankees Back?
Jones turns 25 in a couple of weeks. It’s hard to even consider him a prospect anymore. Sending him to Triple-A at the start of the season was understandable due to the outfield glut.
The question is, what is New York waiting for?
There is a feeling that Jones’ value dips with every day he spends in the minor leagues. Teams may not be incredibly interested in trading for a guy who still hasn’t hit the majors at the age of 25. The current plan is unclear.
If Dominguez does ultimately hit the injured list, Jones should be promoted immediately. He was phenomenal in Spring Training, and he is on quite a hit streak right now down in Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Showcasing Jones for Potential Trades
At the very least, the Yankees could showcase Jones for potential trades. Keeping him down in the minors is only going to inhibit his value between now and the August deadline.
The hope is that Jones can come up and establish himself as a cornerstone piece for the Bronx Bombers moving forward. This was the initial hope when they drafted him out of Vanderbilt in 2022.
The suggestion is for the Yankees to promote Jones and see what he can do.