The New York Yankees are expected to get some key players back from injury in the coming weeks, which could push the struggling Spencer Jones down a level.
The Yankees have struggled on offense without Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton, with Jones epitomizing the team’s inability to generate hits and runs. SI.com reporter Michael Rosenstein predicted that Jones could be the odd man out when the Yankees start to get some of their stars back and need roster spots for them.
Yankees Could Demote Spencer Jones Soon
Jones has struggled at the plate this season, hitting just .221 and going o-for-11 through his three most recent games.
There is still no clarity on exactly when Judge or Stanton could return, but Rosenstein noted that the team could move Jones down to Triple-A.
“The Yankees have been coy and cautious about updates and timelines for the club’s walking wounded,” Rosenstein wrote. “It isn’t hard to imagine New York demoting Jones as soon as Judge, Stanton or Bellinger is ready to return to the lineup.”
But Rosenstein suggested that this wouldn’t be a devastating setback for Jones, rather a normal step in the development of a player still on track to play a meaningful role in the future.
“If and/or when that happens, it will be tempting to write off Jones as another failed prospect,” Rosenstein wrote. “Just keep in mind the Yankees will have an open outfield spot in 2027 since Trent Grisham will be a free agent. Which means that regardless of his 2026 debut, Jones will get at least one more shot to show he’s built for long-term success in the Bronx.”
Aaron Judge’s Return Timeline Looms Over Yankees
Jones could end up sticking around longer by default, with no clarity yet on when Judge will be able to return to the field. The slugger said this week that he expects to return during the season, but gave nothing further in the way of specifics.
“I’ll be back this season,” Judge said, via MLB.com. “I don’t know why I wouldn’t be. That was always the plan, to come back sooner than later, definitely. I never had a thought of not playing this year.”
Yankees manager Aaron Boone said Judge is taking some important steps, working out on the field prior to the team’s game on Wednesday against the St. Louis Cardinals.
“It’s an important part of his progression to get back with us,” Boone said. “It’s good to see him with his pinstripes on and cleats, heading out onto the field in the afternoon, certainly.”
Yankees Predicted to Make Drastic Move on Spencer Jones Amid Struggles