Yankees to recall Spencer Jones after Aaron Judge injury

New York Yankees center fielder Spencer Jones. Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

Yankees to recall Spencer Jones after Aaron Judge injury

By Andrew Wright | Last updated Jun 5, 2026 1:08 PM ET

A player who some refer to as the "left-handed Aaron Judge" is getting his second stint in the majors this season.

New York Yankees recalling Spencer Jones

Due to an injury diagnosis revealing that superstar and reigning AL MVP Aaron Judge would be out for at least four to six weeks, the New York Yankees were needing to make a roster move.

According to multiple reports, top outfield prospect Spencer Jones is being recalled, replacing Judge on the 26-man roster. Jones will return to New York for his second stint with the major league club this season.

Spencer Jones will be recalled from AAA to take Aaron Judge’s roster spot. #yankees
— JackCurryYES (@JackCurryYES) June 5, 2026

Spencer Jones needs to perform better the second time around

Jones has been compared to Judge numerous times due to his 6-foot-7 stature. The results at the plate, though, do not resemble those of Judge.

Jones collected 24 at-bats during his first stint this season, and it was a major struggle. He slashed just .167/.259/.167, an OPS of .426 in those at-bats. Strikeouts have been a career problem for Jones, and those furthered continue with his 50% K rate at the MLB level.

What will the playing time look like?

The most likely path to playing time will be as the designated hitter against right-handed pitching. That will allow Paul Goldschmidt to return to his normal role as the leadoff hitter against left-handed pitching and little to no playing time against right-handers.

Another disappointing stint for Jones with New York may lead to uncomfortable conversations about the former first round pick.

Andrew Wright

Andrew "Dew" Wright graduated from Charleston Southern University with a degree in Communication Studies. He is a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Washington Commanders fan.

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