WFAN’s Chris McMonigle issued an apology to Yankees General Manager Brian Cashman for his previous frustrations expressed regarding the team’s failed attempt to acquire former Brewers ace pitcher Corbin Burnes, who has since joined the Baltimore Orioles. McMonigle’s understanding of Cashman’s decision improved after recent reports shed light on the reasons behind the unsuccessful trade.
Jon Heyman of The New York Post discussed the matter on Heyman’s Hot Stove Notebook, revealing that Milwaukee had their sights set on Yankees’ top outfield prospect, Spencer Jones. Heyman stated, “The Yankees were certainly interested in Burnes. My understanding is that Milwaukee, like the White Sox, had their eye on Spencer Jones. People are quite fond of Spencer Jones… Jones, I believe, played a pivotal role for the Yankees, and they were reluctant to part with him.”
Jones, a first-round draft pick from Vanderbilt University in 2022, signed for $2.88 million and showcased his talents in High-A ball for the Hudson Valley Renegades until late August before transitioning to the Double-A Somerset Patriots. Across 117 games, he posted impressive stats including a .267 batting average, 29 doubles, 16 home runs, 66 RBI, 43 stolen bases, and a .780 OPS.
In his apology, McMonigle acknowledged Jones as the Yankees’ top prospect in the farm system and expressed his understanding of the rationale behind not trading such a valuable asset for a rental player. He emphasized the importance of exercising common sense in such situations, drawing a comparison to not trading the top prospect for Juan Soto. McMonigle concluded by apologizing to Cashman and reaffirming his support for the team. Additionally, it was noted that Jones will be attending Yankees spring training as a non-roster invitee.
