Yankees Unveil Non-Roster Invitees for Upcoming Spring Training

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ICARO Media Group
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06/02/2024 20h27

In preparation for the upcoming spring training, the New York Yankees have announced their list of non-roster invitees who will be attending camp. These players, who are not currently on the 40-man roster, consist of a mix of promising prospects, minor league depth players, and veterans looking to prove their worth.

Among the notable invitees is Josh Breaux, a former second-round pick who showcased his talent by moving across three levels within the Yankees' system in 2023. Joining him is J.C. Escarra, a 28-year-old veteran who has played in independent leagues both in the United States and Mexico.

Ben Rice, an Ivy League draft pick from 2021, impressed the Yankees with his performance in Double-A Somerset at the end of last season, boasting an impressive 1.049 OPS in 48 games. Luis Torrens, a top international signing by the Yankees in 2012, returns to the organization after spending last year with four different teams, including brief stints in the MLB with the Cubs and Mariners.

Jeter Downs, yes, you read that right, will also be attending camp as a depth infielder. Downs managed to clear waivers after being designated for assignment and hopes to make an impact for the Yankees. Caleb Durbin, a speedy and contact-oriented player who impressed in the Arizona Fall League, will be looking to continue his success at Double-A Somerset.

The Yankees have also welcomed back former major leaguer Kevin Smith, who brings versatility as a shortstop and third baseman. Another experienced player, Josh VanMeter, joins the non-roster invitees after appearing in 300 games for the Reds, Diamondbacks, and Pirates from 2019-2022.

Greg Allen, who returns for his third stint with the Yankees' organization, showcased his speed and agility with 31 stolen bases in 34 attempts last year. Luis González, not to be confused with the Luis who broke hearts in 2001, looks to bounce back after an injury-plagued season in 2023.

The Yankees have also picked up Oscar González, a rookie who had a stellar 125 OPS+ in 2022 but faced a difficult year in 2023. Spencer Jones, New York's top pick in 2022, brings his mashing abilities from his time at Vanderbilt and is considered a Top-100 prospect by multiple sources.

Brandon Lockridge, a fifth-round pick from 2018, earned his promotion to Triple-A in 2023 with an impressive.905 OPS in 33 games. The Yankees have also added experienced pitchers to their non-roster invitee list, such as Nick Burdi, who has overcome multiple surgeries in hopes of reigniting his career.

Pitcher Chase Hampton, the top pitching prospect in the Yankees' system by some outlets, will be looking to make strides in Double-A after ending last season with 11 starts. Additionally, left-handed pitcher Anthony Misiewicz, who appeared briefly in the majors last year, aims to cement his place in the Yankees' roster.

Other pitchers on the non-roster invitee list include Yerry De Los Santos and Joey Gerber, who have both faced their fair share of setbacks due to injuries. Tanner Tully, a lefty who made appearances with Cleveland in 2022 before a stint in the KBO, and Duane Underwood Jr., who previously played for the Cubs and Pirates, form part of the pitching ensemble.

Art Warren, who underwent Tommy John surgery in 2023, is determined to make a successful comeback after 65 appearances with the Reds between 2021-2022. Lastly, Will Warren, a promising young arm, is seen as a close contender for the Yankees' Opening Day rotation.

With these non-roster invitees, the Yankees aim to bolster their depth and evaluate potential candidates for the big-league roster. Spring training, which will see pitchers and catchers reporting on February 14th, is set to be an exciting time of competition and development for the team.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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