On January 4, 2024, the Yankees acquired two players. While the attention was fixed on pitcher Cody Poteet, the team claimed outfielder Bubba Thompson off waivers from the Cincinnati Reds.
While Bubba Thompson may currently be a peripheral piece, the Yankees’ outfield presents a robust depth chart. From the slugging prowess of Judge and Soto to Verdugo‘s adaptability, the Bombers have abundant power. Young talents like Dominguez, Grishman, and Cabrera contribute further intrigue, while Gonzalez and Pereira enhance the team’s overall depth.
Who is Bubba Thompson
A former first-round selection, Bubba Thompson hasn’t yet set the majors ablaze with his batting prowess. His statistics over two seasons with the Rangers depict a narrative of modest offensive output (.242/.286/.305) and a knack for base thievery (22 successful steals in 27 attempts). However, Bubba Thompson’s true standout feature lies in his elite speed, ranking among the top 1% in the league. Imagine Usain Bolt wielding a bat, with an added touch of decent outfield defense.
In the minors, Bubba Thompson’s swiftness translated into an impressive 150 steals over six seasons, cementing his reputation as a speedster. Now, with two option years remaining, his probable route back to the majors lies through the role of a pinch runner, poised to infuse that extra surge of energy when the situation demands.
Bubba Thompson took the long road to Yankee pinstripes. A three-sport prep standout, Thompson flashed five-tool potential on the diamond for McGill-Toolen Catholic High while also starring on the gridiron. After originally committing to Auburn for baseball, the centerfielder was selected 26th overall by the Texas Rangers in 2017’s MLB draft.
His pro journey featured ups and downs as injuries hampered his progress early on. But he ultimately rose through the Ranger’s system, showcasing blazing speed and defensive prowess in the outfield. After earning a big-league call-up in 2022, Thompson debuted with Texas and flashed electrifying speed on the bases.
A waiver claim by the Royals and then Reds followed in 2023 before the promising Alabama product landed in the Bronx.
Bubba Thompson’s 2024 campaign became one of the most turbulent chapters of his professional career. He was claimed by the New York Yankees on January 4, 2024, but designated for assignment just fifteen days later, then picked up by the Minnesota Twins on January 24. His time in Minnesota lasted only two weeks before he was again designated for assignment on February 7, and subsequently claimed by the Cincinnati Reds on February 13.
Assigned to Triple-A Louisville to open the season, Thompson was recalled to the majors on March 27, appearing in 17 games for Cincinnati. He went 2-for-18 (.111) at the plate without a home run or RBI before being designated for assignment once more on May 23. After clearing waivers, he joined Double-A Chattanooga on May 25, finishing the season there before electing free agency on November 4, 2024.
In a surprising turn, Thompson announced his retirement from baseball on January 12, 2025, revealing plans to enroll at the University of South Alabama and attempt to join the football team as a walk-on. His decision marked a full-circle return to his athletic roots, as Thompson was once a standout high school quarterback before choosing a professional baseball career.
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