Giancarlo Stanton’s latest admission about his ongoing elbow struggles has opened a window of opportunity for prospects like Jasson Dominguez and Spencer Jones.
Look, we all knew this was coming. Stanton struggling to stay healthy isn’t news anymore, it’s a fact of life for Yankees fans. But his candid remarks about battling through pain could be the break Dominguez and Jones need. With Stanton likely to miss a chunk of games, the Yankees have to consider their options in the outfield.
Dominguez, known as “The Martian,” is looking at a crucial year. The Yankees’ outfield is jam-packed with stars like Aaron Judge, Trent Grisham and Cody Bellinger, but Dominguez has the tools to be a game-changer. The problem? He’s probably starting the season in Triple-A due to this logjam. It’s not a talent issue—he’s 23 with power, speed, and switch-hitting potential—but he needs consistent at-bats to develop.
Jasson Dominguez x.com/yankees
Triple-A or Bust?
Dominguez’s path to the big leagues isn’t straightforward. The Yankees have a crowded outfield, and recent moves like signing Randal Grichuk only tighten the competition. Reports from insiders suggest Dominguez will start in Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, not because he lacks ability, but because he needs regular at-bats. His right-handed swing and defense need work, and mentorship from veterans like Ahmed Rosario could be pivotal.
The projections are mixed. Some see him as a 20 HR/20-30 SB contributor if he gets the right opportunities. Others are more conservative, suggesting limited MLB time unless he dominates in Triple-A or injuries occur. For Dominguez, 2026 is less about immediate stardom and more about proving he’s a long-term asset.
We would recommend not to park your car there 🤯@spencerjnes 🚀 pic.twitter.com/mempy7lABk
— New York Yankees (@Yankees) February 26, 2026
Enter Spencer Jones
Spencer Jones is making noise in spring training, and fans are buzzing. The 6’7″ outfielder has showcased his power with two massive home runs already. His swing has even drawn comparisons to Shohei Ohtani. But like Dominguez, he’s blocked by the same outfield logjam.
Jones has the raw power and athleticism to make an impact, but consistency is key. His minor-league numbers last year were solid, showing 20+ HR/20+ SB potential, yet his strikeout rate remains a concern. If he continues mashing in spring, he might just force the Yankees’ hand.
The Stanton Factor
- Aaron Judge slides into more DH days when the elbows flare and the lineup needs oxygen.
- Cody Bellinger shifts across the outfield to keep defense stable while roles change.
- Jasson Domínguez moves from “timeline” to “option” the moment the lineup needs another everyday outfielder.
Stanton’s elbow issues mean he’s not starting the season at full capacity. He admits the pain is real, so the Yankees are planning for him to play around 65% of games. That leaves room for someone like Dominguez or Jones to step up. Stanton’s grit is admirable, but the Yankees need a backup plan, and these prospects are waiting in the wings.
The Yankees signed Grichuk for depth, but let’s be real. His numbers are declining, he’s old, and he’s not the long-term answer. Dominguez and Jones have a chance to prove they’re the future. It’s time for the Yankees to invest in their young talent.
Prospect Hype or Reality Check?
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: the Yankees’ outfield is a crowded mess. With Giancarlo Stanton’s elbow issues continuing, it’s time to see if Jasson Dominguez and Spencer Jones can step up. Dominguez, with his power and speed, has all the tools but needs consistent at-bats. Yet, he’s stuck in Triple-A Scranton. Why? Because Cashman and Co. decided to fill the outfield with big contracts and veterans. It’s like buying a Ferrari and never driving it.
Jones: The Next Big Thing?
Spencer Jones has been lighting up the Grapefruit League. Two bombs already and it’s only February. But can he cut it against MLB pitching? His strikeout rate is a red flag. Sure, his power is undeniable, but we’ve seen that movie before. Remember Joey Gallo? The Yankees need Jones to refine his approach in Triple-A. If he can cut down on the whiffs, he might just force the Yankees’ hand by mid-season. It’s high time the Yankees let these kids play.
Signing Randal Grichuk to a minor-league deal is classic Yankees—another insurance policy. But let’s be real, Grichuk’s best days are behind him. His OPS against lefties was impressive once, but last year it was mediocre. This signing is more of a band-aid than a solution. The real solution? Give Dominguez and Jones the chance to prove their worth. The Yankees have been teasing fans with their potential for too long. It’s time to let them loose and see what they can do.
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