The New York Yankees have firmly stated they will not trade Spencer Jones under typical circumstances, making it clear during the ongoing MLB season that the outfielder remains off the market. Jones, ranked as the team’s fourth-best prospect by MLB Pipeline and showing impressive progress toward the major leagues, is a key part of their future plans.
According to MLB insider Jon Heyman, the Yankees would only consider trading Jones as part of a package deal for Pittsburgh Pirates’ ace Paul Skenes. However, the Pirates currently have no intentions to trade Skenes, which effectively means Jones is staying with New York at least through this trade deadline and likely beyond.
Teams with good/great pieces consistently ask the Yankees about top OF prospect Spencer Jones. The Yankees are consistent on this too: They will only trade Jones (and others in package) for Paul Skenes, who’s not available and not going anywhere,
Heyman wrote on X.
Spencer Jones’ Progress and MLB Readiness
Drafted by the Yankees in the first round of the 2022 MLB Draft, Spencer Jones has dominated Triple-A pitching this season. Through 21 games, he boasts a remarkable .402 batting average along with 13 home runs and 25 RBIs, showcasing tremendous power and consistency. His swift rise through the minors has fueled expectations that he could make his major league debut relatively soon.
Despite this, the Yankees did not promote Jones even when star outfielder Aaron Judge was placed on the injured list, a move that many assumed would create an opening in the lineup. Manager Aaron Boone confirmed that calling Jones up was not under consideration at that time.
Haven’t even gone there yet, Boone said when asked about the possibility of Jones joining the major league roster to replace Judge. Meanwhile, Jones remains in Triple-A, continuing his strong performance while preparing for his eventual call-up.
I think it’s a combination of things,
Jones explained regarding his recent success.
I have a lot of really good people in my life, here at the field and back home, and they’re helping me to just be myself and let things flow naturally. I’m being the athlete I know myself to be and it’s been a good season and a fun month, but there is still a lot left to do.
Jones is widely projected to be a middle-of-the-order bat once he reaches the majors, making him a valuable asset for the Yankees’ lineup in the near future.
Yankees’ Activity and Strategy at the Trade Deadline
Leading into the trade deadline, the Yankees have been active in shaping their roster but have yet to finalize any deals on the deadline day itself. Their first major acquisition was third baseman Ryan McMahon from the Colorado Rockies, in exchange for pitching prospects Griffin Herring and Josh Grosz. While McMahon is seen as a defensive asset, his offensive production has been inconsistent.
Shortly after, New York added Amed Rosario from the Washington Nationals by trading right-handed pitcher Clayton Beeter and outfielder Browm Martinez. Rosario offers versatility as he can play multiple infield positions and will likely share time at third base with McMahon.
The Yankees also bolstered their outfield depth by acquiring left-handed power hitter Austin Slater from the Chicago White Sox in exchange for pitching prospect Gage Ziehl. Slater’s ability to excel against left-handed pitching provides the Yankees with a valuable platoon option in the outfield.
Negotiations Underway for Closer David Bednar
On the final day before the trade deadline, the Yankees have focused on strengthening their bullpen, engaging in discussions with the Pittsburgh Pirates about closer David Bednar. Sources briefed on the talks suggest that New York is the leading candidate to acquire Bednar, who has impressed with a 2.37 ERA and a perfect 17-for-17 save record this season.
The Yankees and Pirates are discussing a trade involving Bednar, according to sources briefed on the discussions,
MLB insider Ken Rosenthal reported.
An official from one team involved in the pursuit of Bednar believes the Yankees are the front-runner.
Bednar is under club control for another year and is currently earning $5.9 million in the 2024 season, making him a valuable addition to the Yankees’ bullpen as they aim to strengthen their pitching staff for a playoff push.
Outlook for Spencer Jones and Yankees’ Trade Moves
With Paul Skenes off the table for a trade, Spencer Jones remains a critical piece of the Yankees’ future, unlikely to be moved anytime soon given the current trade landscape. The ongoing focus on bolstering the roster through experienced players and bullpen upgrades illustrates New York’s commitment to immediate competitiveness, while still nurturing promising talents like Jones.
As the team continues to navigate the trade deadline, the development and eventual promotion of Jones will be pivotal for their long-term success. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see when the Yankees finally integrate Jones into their major league lineup, especially after demonstrating his significant potential in Triple-A this season.