TAMPA, Fla. — After a week filled with workouts, the New York Yankees are set to kick off their Grapefruit League games, starting on Friday against the Orioles in Sarasota and welcoming the Tigers to Steinbrenner Field on Saturday. While the outcomes of these early games may not hold much weight in the overall season, they present valuable opportunities for the players, especially for those vying for key positions. Here’s a look at six Yankees to keep an eye on as the spring exhibition season unfolds.
Aaron Judge, the outfielder and three-time American League MVP, approaches this preseason in a unique situation. Traditionally, Judge is gradually eased into spring training, but with his commitment to play for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, he is expected to participate in four to five games before departing on March 1. This also means his fellow WBC players like David Bednar, Paul Goldschmidt, and others could see increased playing time early in the games.
Jasson Dominguez, previously anticipated to secure the starting left field position, finds himself competing for a reserve outfield role this season. Despite his stellar reputation as a top prospect within the Yankees’ system, Dominguez is likely to start the year with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, as he needs consistent at-bats to develop further. His performance in this spring training will be critical, especially after facing challenges adjusting to left field last year.
Spencer Jones, the Yankees’ first-round draft pick in 2022, will also be under the spotlight. With the return of Cody Bellinger, Jones’s chances of making the major league roster have diminished. Nonetheless, the power-hitting 6-foot-7 outfielder is seen as a potential future star, having displayed impressive offensive numbers in the minor leagues. Still, he needs to improve his plate discipline, which has been a concern over the past seasons. Spring training will provide him with the necessary platform to refine his skills.
George Lombard Jr., noted as the organization’s top prospect, is another player to watch. Having drawn favorable comparisons to young star Carlos Correa, Lombard had an impressive showing during last spring training. He is expected to start in Double-A this season after experiencing growing pains at the plate last year. Despite being reassigned to minor-league camp, his progress will be closely observed.
Additionally, fans will have the chance to see promising pitching talents Elmer Rodriguez and Carlos Lagrange in action. Rodriguez is slated to start the exhibition opener while Lagrange will take the mound on Saturday. Known for his powerful fastball that reached 103 mph in the minors, Lagrange garners attention, yet Rodriguez is often viewed by scouts as the more polished pitcher, potentially closer to the major leagues.
With exciting prospects and experienced players alike, this spring training looks promising for the Yankees as they prepare for the upcoming season. The exhibition games may be mere precursors, but they hold the potential for talent development and player evaluations that could shape the team’s future.