New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone said Monday that utility man, Jahmai Jones, is in the mix for an Opening Day roster spot, per Bryan Hoch of MLB.com
The Yankees claimed Jones off waivers from the Milwaukee Brewers in February, and he’s made the most of the opportunity slashing .286/.429/.500 during Spring Training. His slash line includes a home run, four RBI, a stolen base, and seven walks over 14 games. The 26-year-old has had little more than a “cup of coffee” in the majors, compiling an underwhelming .179/.233/.266 slash line over 90 major league plate appearances across three seasons. Jones spent most of his time in the majors with the Baltimore Orioles in 2021, playing in 26 games. After being bounced from the minors to the majors multiple times over the last few seasons, Jones is out of minor-league options. If the Yankees choose to not include Jones on the Opening Day roster, he will be subjected to waivers. If the Yankees do choose to include Jones on the roster, then he will likely be a bench piece who is capable of playing both the outfield and infield. This option is all the more enticing with the recent news that DJ LeMahieu beginning the season on the injured list due to a foot injury.
A Case of Mistaken Identity
Fans from around the league have taken notice of Jones after getting a look at him (sort of). During his first at-bat in Thursday’s exhibition game between the Yankees and Braves, a headshot of New York Jets Quarterback, Zach Wilson, lit up the scoreboard to represent Jones as he was stepping into the batter’s box. It would later be corrected during his next plate appearance.
Though Zach Wilson did request a trade this offseason, it’s unlikely the Yankees are in the market for the No. 2 overall pick from the 2021 NFL draft.
There was no explanation as to why Wilson’s photo was used, but fans did not disappoint nonetheless.
