Spencer Jones (Yankees) Adopts Ohtani-Inspired Stance, Crushes Spring HR

Yankees prospect Spencer Jones, who showed positive strides in the minors in 2025 despite a high strikeout rate, has adopted a new toe-tap and load batting stance, citing Shohei Ohtani as inspiration. This mechanical adjustment proved effective immediately, as Jones launched a 408-foot solo home run in his first spring at-bat. Teammate Aaron Judge praised the change, noting it helps Jones get his front foot down earlier, providing valuable milliseconds to react to incoming pitches, especially fastballs.