Spring training is always an exciting part of an MLB season as teams field their best pieces for pre-season training. This year, the New York Yankees will set out to resolve a few question marks related to roster construction. Catchers and pitchers will report in Tampa on February 14, and the others will join at a later date. Having said that, ahead of the crucial phase, let’s explore three such candidates who could leave a profound impact on the Bronx Bombers in the spring of this year.
Spencer Jones
Widely regarded as the next Aaron Judge in the making, Spencer Jones has received a non-roster invite for this year’s spring training. The no.1 Yankee prospect draws an uncanny resemblance to Yankee captain Aaron Judge owing to his bulked-up physique and raw athleticism. Jones was drafted in the 2022 MLB draft as a 25th overall pick. The left-handed hitter scored 16 home runs and 43 stolen bases for High-A Hudson Valley and Double-A Somerset in his first full professional season in 2023. Understandably, the scouts and the Yankee organization see highly of him. He is very much seen as the future star in the making and an ideal candidate for center field. However, he has to wait for his due and get some Triple-A experience before dreaming of a big league debut. Regardless, Spencer Jones is undoubtedly the next big thing waiting to explode.
Chase Hampton
Chase Hampton will enter the spring training as one of the top pitching prospects of the Yankees farm system. The New York Yankees kept him immune from trade talks this off-season. That underscores how the club values him as a great future asses. Hampton was drafted in 2022 and has only impressed with his skills on the mound since then. In 2023, he held a 2-1 record and a 2.68 ERA across nine appearances in High-A Hudson Valley. Not only that, Hampton made 11 starts for the Somerset Patriots in the Double-A and posted a 2-2 record and a 4.37 ERA. That being said, scouts drew similarities between Chase’s and ace Gerrit Cole’s changeups. However, to fill into the CY Young award-winning pitcher’s shoes won’t be a cakewalk for Hampton. He still has a long way to go. And this year’s spring training is a perfect opportunity for him to kick-start his professional journey.
Ben Rice
The 12th round 2021 MLB draft prospect Ben Rice moved heads with his splashing debut in Double-A last season. Rice showcased insane hitting prowess and finished the season with a .327 hitting average, 1.049 OPS, and 16 home runs across 48 games. He is also a non-roster invitee for the New York Yankees spring training this year. This spring offers an opportunity for Rice to showcase his impeccable talent at the highest stage. And stake claim on a roster spot for the imminent future. The left-hander possesses a unique ability to play as a catcher and first baseman. His versatility remains his biggest strength as he navigates his way through his professional baseball journey.
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