Spencer Jones Has Arrived — And the Yankees Better Notice

For anyone who might have doubted it, let’s be perfectly clear: Spencer Jones has arrived.

The highly touted Yankees prospect came through the minor leagues with some major question marks. His large stature and concerns about his hit tool led some to wonder whether he would ever consistently make enough contact to become an everyday player.

But the athletic ability and big-time power were always enticing enough for the Yankees to give him his opportunity.

During his first stint in the majors, the strikeout issues were certainly noticeable, and the questions only got louder. Could Jones really handle a full-time role? Were there simply too many holes in his swing?

Well, we can officially put those questions to rest.

Because Jones has taken off.

Jones is batting .346 with five home runs and a .933 OPS over his last 25 games. He is also hitting over .300 with an OPS above .900 over his last 35 games.

And the best part may be yet to come.

Jones is batting a ridiculous .435 with a 1.251 OPS against left-handed pitching this season, both lead MLB (min 50 PA).

That number should get everyone’s attention.

There were questions about whether Jones might eventually become a platoon player or fall into the dreaded “three true outcomes” category — a player whose game revolves around home runs, walks and strikeouts.

Instead, we are seeing something much more complete.

Jones brings excellent defense and the ability to run, along with the power that made him such an intriguing prospect in the first place. When you put all of that together, you are looking at a player who is beginning to look an awful lot like a true five-tool talent.

And that changes things for the Yankees.

When Trent Grisham returns, there will be decisions to make. But after watching what Jones has done lately, there should be no more wondering whether he belongs in the conversation.

Spencer Jones has answered the questions the best way a baseball player can.

He has gone out and hit.

Now, let’s hope the Yankees, and Aaron Boone, realize what they have.