September is right around the corner, and that means two things if you’re a major league team. Most importantly it means your style of baseball is either meaningful or playing spoiler. The other half of that equation is the roster expansions, and the New York Yankees may have a chance to get an early look at some of their anticipated prospects.
The Yankees’ current 26-man roster has all spots filled; the roster is tight without any room for movement. Each team will have a 40-man roster, protected. Of those 40, a 26-man roster will be active.
During roster expansions, each team can increase their active from 26 players to 28, so who might the Yankees bring up to the Bronx?
Prospects the Yankees Could Promote During Roster Expansion
Jasson Dominguez
Jasson Dominguez is an asset to the Yankees. Unfortunately, he was sidelined again in mid-June due to a strained oblique. This stunted his development for a short period of time. The reps he missed were huge, towards his return and promotion.
Dominguez was activated from the injured list in July where he joined the Triple-A RailRiders for rehab. Since getting back on the field, Dominguez has regained comfort and his swing has looked very healthy.
It is understood that the club wants Dominguez up on the active roster as a platoon member in the outfield. Once the roster expansion comes, the Yankees are expected to make the appropriate moves to replenish the Triple-A outfield in order to promote their top prospect.
Spencer Jones
The Yankees ultimately retained Spencer Jones, leaving him untouched at the trade deadline. Jones has proven himself to be a strong piece to the future of the Bronx Bombers. His estimated arrival time is 2025.
This would be a good time to protect Jones on the 40-man roster. His 2024 season has been visually incredible. Jones’ raw power has led to 58 RBI (13 in Double-A). His athleticism and speed resulted in 21 stolen bases.
Spencer Jones has a 143 wRC+ over his last 52 games, but it’s also come with a strikeout rate around 37%.
On one hand, we’re seeing him pull and lift the ball more, but on the other, he’s a prospect who is still very much in the developmental stage.https://t.co/oPzRCaXjRn
— Ryan Garcia (@RyanGarciaESM) August 7, 2024
The issue with promoting Jones during roster expansions is the crowded outfield. New York’s outfield is stacked, and Jasson Dominguez is about to add to that equation. In a case where Dominguez is not ready to step up to the big leagues, Jones could be the call.
Pitching
Right-handed pitcher and third-ranked prospect Chase Hampton is often in the discussion as a candidate for promotion. Hampton could find a spot somewhere in the bullpen for the month of September. He currently resides in Double-A, but he has not pitched as much as the club expected him to.
Hampton has thrown 16 2/3 innings within three levels this season. Promoting him would be premature. However, getting a look at him from the major league level would not hurt. This will depend on his health, as injury has been a constant issue with him.
The Yankees will promote at least two players to reach a 28-man roster in September. Whoever reaches the show will need to turn it on quickly in preparation for a pennant race.
