Yankees May Flip Stance On Once-Untouchable Prospect

The New York Yankees might be shifting course on one of their most promising young players — and doing so at the most critical time.

New York has reportedly made outfielder Spencer Jones available in trade talks, a stark reversal from the tone surrounding him just a week ago. “The New York Yankees are open to trading prized outfield prospect Spencer Jones, rival GMs say,” reported Bob Nightengale of USA Today on Sunday.

The 6-foot-7 Jones, a towering former first-round pick, has been nothing short of electric since reaching Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre in late June. His .400 average, 13 home runs and 1.407 OPS over 19 games have skyrocketed his trade value. His tools — power, speed, defense — all look big-league ready. And yet, the Yankees appear ready to entertain offers.

That decision speaks more to their current ambitions than it does to Jones’ future. With needs on the mound and pressure to win now, New York is in the market for frontline arms like Joe Ryan of the Minnesota Twins or Mitch Keller of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Landing one could mean surrendering a player like Jones, especially given the club’s thin minor league system.

Just a few weeks ago, he was considered a swing-and-miss risk buried behind other outfielders. Now, he has emerged as the kind of trade chip who could headline a blockbuster or be too valuable to include in one.

Jones, for his part, has made his preferences clear. He told The Athletic last week he wants to stay in the organization and build something in New York.

That decision may soon be out of his hands.

For the Yankees, dealing a surging prospect in the middle of his breakout could come with a price far greater than prospect capital.