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Spencer Jones news
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Yankees rookie Spencer Jones hit a go-ahead single in the 10th inning, but the Padres won 3-2. The Encinitas native's homecoming series highlights his emergence while Aaron Judge nears return.
Background
Spencer Jones, a 25-year-old rookie from Encinitas, California, grew up attending Padres games at Petco Park. He made his MLB debut on May 8, 2026, and has become a regular starter in the Yankees' outfield, especially while Aaron Judge has been out since May 31 with an injury. Jones has performed well, hitting nine homers and driving in 28 runs, and this series in San Diego is a homecoming for him.
How it unfolded
- Sep 1, 2026Jones homered against the Angels, part of a two-run home run in the first inning, continuing his hot streak.
- Sep 2, 2026Jones went 2-for-3 with a two-run home run, two walks, and a stolen base in a 7-3 win over the Angels.
- Sep 4, 2026The Yankees opened a three-game series against the Padres at Petco Park, marking Jones' first game there as a big leaguer.
- Sep 4, 2026In the 10th inning, Jones hit a go-ahead single to center field, giving the Yankees a 2-1 lead, but the Padres rallied to win 3-2.
Who’s saying what
- Manager
- Yankees manager Aaron Boone praised Jones' swing, saying, 'Great swing by Spencer to get us on the board there in the 10th, but obviously a tough one in the end.'
- Player
- Jones said he was focused on winning, not the homecoming, but expects to feel the emotions as the weekend progresses.