Yankees Prioritize Depth and Development with Outfield Moves
If there's one thing the Yankees understand heading into 2026, it's the value of depth - especially in the outfield. With a stacked big-league roster and a few high-upside names knocking on the door, New York is quietly building a safety net in Triple-A that could pay off in a big way later this season.
One of the latest moves? Outfielder Yanquiel Fernandez has been outrighted to Triple-A Scranton.
On the surface, it’s a low-key transaction. But dig a little deeper, and it fits perfectly into the Yankees’ broader strategy: stash talent, stay flexible, and be ready when the moment calls.
Fernandez Has the Tools - Now It’s About Refinement
Let’s not sugarcoat it - Fernandez’s 2025 stint in the majors was a tough one. In 52 games with the Rockies, he hit just .225 with four home runs and a 55 wRC+, meaning he was well below league average at the plate. His strikeout rate hovered near 30%, and the production simply didn’t match the potential.
But Triple-A told a different story. Before his call-up, Fernandez slashed .284 with 13 homers and a .502 slugging percentage over 64 games.
That’s not just solid - that’s the kind of pop that turns heads. And his arm?
Elite. He averaged 97.2 mph on throws from right field, putting him in the 100th percentile.
That’s not a typo. The guy has a cannon.
At just 23 years old, Fernandez still offers intriguing upside. The Yankees aren’t counting on him to be a big-league contributor right away, but they’re not giving up on him either.
He’s in Scranton to get reps, refine his approach, and stay ready. And if an outfield injury or roster shuffle opens a door, Fernandez could be a plug-and-play option with upside.
The Real Battle: Spencer Jones vs. Jasson Dominguez
While Fernandez is a depth piece for now, the real intrigue lies with two of the Yankees’ most exciting young talents: Spencer Jones and Jasson Dominguez. With Aaron Judge, Cody Bellinger, and Trent Grisham locked into starting roles, the fourth outfield spot is up for grabs - and both Jones and Dominguez are making their case.
Jones, in particular, made a loud statement in 2025. Splitting time between Double-A and Triple-A, he posted 35 home runs, 102 runs scored, 80 RBI, and 29 stolen bases - all while hitting .274 with a 153 wRC+ across 116 games.
That’s not just good - that’s elite production. And it’s not just about power.
Jones has been vocal about wanting to round out his game.
“I think the biggest thing for me this spring is to focus on the little things that I do well: hitting the ball, playing good defense, and stealing bases,” Jones said recently. When asked about offseason adjustments, he kept it simple: “It’s just a couple of minor things, but I think they’ll pay off this season.”
The skill set is there. The maturity is there. But the question remains: is a bench role in the Bronx really the best place for him to grow?
Triple-A Could Be the Smart Move - For Now
Here’s the reality: neither Jones nor Dominguez is likely to get everyday at-bats as the Yankees’ fourth outfielder. And for players with their upside, development can’t take a back seat. That’s why there’s a very real scenario where both begin the season in Triple-A, with Oswaldo Cabrera and Amed Rosario serving as the club’s primary utility options.
It’s not a demotion - it’s a strategy. Keep your top prospects playing every day.
Let them continue to refine their tools in a competitive environment. And when the inevitable need arises - whether due to injury, underperformance, or roster shifts - they’ll be ready.
Fernandez fits into that same plan. He might not be in the same tier as Jones or Dominguez when it comes to long-term upside, but he brings legitimate tools that can help a big-league club in the right situation.
His power and arm strength are real. What he needs is time and consistency.
The Bottom Line
The Yankees aren’t just building a roster - they’re building a system. A system that gives them flexibility, protects their young talent, and keeps the pipeline flowing. With Fernandez, Jones, and Dominguez all in Triple-A, they’ve got three very different - but very capable - outfielders waiting in the wings.
It’s not about rushing anyone. It’s about being ready when the time is right. And if the Yankees can balance patience with opportunity, they might find that their next big contributor is already in the building - just waiting for the call.