Spencer Jones is channeling a more relaxed mindset, and it's translating into a hot bat for the New York Yankees. Jones described his approach as being a "chill bird," a stark contrast to his previous stint where he felt he was trying too hard. Since returning on July 26, he has focused on allowing his natural abilities to take over, a strategy that has paid dividends.
This shift was evident in the Yankees' recent 10-5 victory over the Mariners. Jones contributed two doubles and three runs batted in during the game, which marked the Yankees' fourth win in their last five outings. He has shown particular effectiveness with runners in scoring position, posting a .981 OPS in those situations over 46 plate appearances.
"When there's runners on base there's really no pressure on you at the plate. It's more so on the pitcher on the mound," Jones explained about his strategy with men on base. "That's kind of the way I've always framed it and just recognize that the guys are going to try to get you out, they're going to put stuff over the plate. As long as you do your job and don't go chasing, you'll get a pitch to hit."
Jones' recent offensive surge is a welcome development for a Yankees team hampered by injuries. He delivered a significant hit against the Braves and ace Chris Sale in a prior game, driving in two runs. In the game against the Mariners, his two-run double in the third inning helped cut a three-run deficit to one, and he later tied the game with another double in the fifth inning.
Manager Aaron Boone noted Jones' physical attributes and his developing approach. "I feel like he has had some adjustability. You start with obviously his size and strength and speed, and real natural power. He touches it on the barrel, it's getting hit hard," Boone said. "But I feel like he's done a good job of having professional at-bats every day. He understands some of his strengths and weaknesses. He has been pretty good at having a plan going up there, and knowing what that pitcher's strengths and weaknesses are and then making a plan for that. He has shown some adaptability at this level, which has been good."
