The Yankees‘ minor league system endured a challenging 2024 season, with injuries and trades taking their toll. Top prospects like Agustin Ramirez and Chase Hampton, once considered key contributors, spent significant time on the IL or were dealt to other organizations.
However, the season wasn’t entirely lost. Amid the setbacks, Spencer Jones emerged as one of the brightest stars, leading a group of unlikely players who powered their affiliates through the second half and into the playoffs.
With the season now in the rearview, here’s a breakdown of the standout performers, starting with the much-anticipated rise of Spencer Jones.
Breakout Star: Spencer Jones
Spencer Jones, the Yankees’ 2022 first-round pick, came into 2024 with high expectations, and by the second half of the season, he began to meet them. Often compared to Aaron Judge due to his towering frame and raw power, Jones’ performance at Double-A Somerset showcased his ability to deliver both at the plate and in the outfield.
Jones slashed .259/.336/.452 across 544 plate appearances, launching 17 home runs and swiping 25 bases. His power was a key asset, but his strikeout rate (36.76%) remains a point of concern. However, as the season progressed, Jones made noticeable adjustments, and his second-half surge gave a glimpse of his immense potential. Jones’ athleticism and raw tools make him one of the most exciting prospects in the Yankees’ system.
Heading into 2025, Spencer Jones will likely start in Triple-A, with the chance to refine his plate discipline and cut down on strikeouts. If he can continue to develop his approach, a big-league debut could be on the horizon, and Jones could be a key part of the Yankees’ future outfield.
Hitter of the Year: Agustin Ramirez
Agustin Ramirez’s season was derailed by injuries, but when he was on the field, he demonstrated why he’s considered one of the most promising young hitters in the Yankees’ system. Alongside Spencer Jones, he is one of two Yankees rookies to make the Double-A Eastern League All-Star team.
Ramirez, a versatile player capable of catching and playing the outfield, had been a fixture on the leaderboards in 2023. Though injuries limited his availability in 2024, he continued to show flashes of the power and plate discipline that made him stand out.
Across his limited time in the minors, Ramirez posted strong numbers before heading to the IL, displaying a knack for getting on base and driving in runs. The Yankees remain high on his potential, and a healthy 2025 could see him return to form as a key offensive threat.
Most likely to reach the Yankees in 2025: Caleb Durbin
Caleb Durbin continues to be a versatile and productive piece within the Yankees’ minor league system. The utility player, who showcased his abilities across multiple positions in 2024, finished with a .287/.396/.471 slash line in Triple-A, hitting 10 home runs and stealing 29 bases in 32 attempts.
Durbin’s value comes from his ability to impact the game in multiple ways. Though not a traditional power hitter, he pulls the ball well and has a modern approach that allows him to be productive despite his lack of raw power. His defense and baserunning make him a valuable asset, and with Gleyber Torres’ impending free agency, Durbin could find himself competing for a spot on the Yankees’ roster in 2025.
As Durbin heads to the Arizona Fall League, his main focus will be staying healthy and continuing to refine his offensive approach, putting him in a strong position to make an impact at the major league level next year.
What do you think? Leave your comment below.
Ramirez, got traded, doesn’t count for me. Pitchers are Cam Schlitter and Ben Shields and for hitting, Raffy Flores, and Jackson Castillo.