TAMPA, Fla. – New York Yankees outfielder Spencer Jones is adjusting his batting stance to more closely resemble that of Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani, a change first observed during a Spring Training game against the Detroit Tigers on February 21, 2026.
During the game at George M. Steinbrenner Field, Jones launched a home run to right field that caught the attention of observers, including YES Network’s David Cone, who noted the similarity to Ohtani’s setup at the plate, specifically a toe tap before the swing. The observation quickly circulated on social media, with MLB’s official account posting a side-by-side comparison of the two players’ stances.
Jones confirmed the influence after the game, stating he actively studies Ohtani’s approach. “He’s a great reference of a really good mover with a great swing,” Jones said, according to MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch. “He’s one of those guys that I look at with some of the stuff he does, and I try to apply it in whichever way I can.”
The 24-year-traditional Jones spent the 2025 minor league season refining his swing, aiming to reduce strikeouts although maintaining power. Manager Aaron Boone and veteran teammate Aaron Judge have as well acknowledged the Ohtani-like qualities of the new stance, according to reports. The shift in approach comes as Jones seeks to establish a consistent and repeatable swing, a challenge he has faced in the past.
Jones’s performance in Spring Training is being closely watched as he is considered a top prospect for the Yankees. While comparisons to a player of Ohtani’s caliber – a four-time MVP and two-time World Series champion – are premature, the adoption of his mechanics signals a deliberate effort by Jones to elevate his game.
Elsewhere in Yankees camp, shortstop Anthony Volpe is expected to return to the starting lineup upon completion of his rehabilitation from offseason shoulder surgery, though José Caballero is positioned to potentially challenge for playing time.
