The Yankees have unveiled their spring training non-roster invitee hitters, a diverse group of players with varying levels of experience and talent. This year's list includes a mix of top prospects, familiar veteran names, and players with intriguing potential. Here's a breakdown of the notable hitters invited to spring training, categorized by position.
Catchers:
Abrahan Gutierrez: A right-handed hitter, Gutierrez showed potential in 2025 with a .235/.316/.275 slash line, one home run, and six RBIs in 32 games between Low-A and Triple-A. He was acquired via the Rule 5 Draft from the Pirates.
Payton Henry: Henry, a right-handed catcher, has a history with the Yankees, signing a minor-league contract in December after being a free agent. He has experience with the Brewers, Marlins, and Phillies, with a .186/.314/.209 slash line in 51 plate appearances in his MLB debut.
Miguel Palma: Palma, another right-handed hitter, struggled in 2025 with a .155/.264/.264 slash line in 41 games between Rookie, Double-A, and Triple-A. He was signed to a minor-league contract after missing time due to injury.
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Infielders:
Jonathan Ornelas: Ornelas, a right-handed hitter, made his MLB debut in 2023 and received a 15-game runout in 2024 as an injury replacement. He has a .208/.263/.245 slash line in 58 plate appearances. He was previously with the Braves and Rangers.
George Lombard Jr.: A highly-rated prospect, Lombard Jr. is the Yankees' top-ranked player at No. 32 overall. He played 132 games in 2025, slashing .235/.367/.381 with 32 doubles, nine homers, and a 127 wRC+. He is expected to be a key contributor in the infield.
Paul DeJong: DeJong, a former All-Star shortstop, has had a challenging career due to injuries. He signed a minor-league deal with the Yankees after missing half of the 2025 season. With a .228/.269/.373 slash line in 57 games for the Nationals, he could provide infield depth.
Zack Short: Short, primarily a shortstop, has played for the Tigers, Mets, Red Sox, Braves, and Astros. With a .172/.271/.296 slash line in 243 big league games, he is likely to accept a Triple-A depth role.
Outfielders:
Kenedy Corona: Corona, a right-handed outfielder, has limited big league experience with the Astros. He signed a minor-league deal with the Yankees after clearing waivers. His speed is a potential asset.
Duke Ellis: Ellis, a 28-year-old outfielder, made a surprising addition to the ALDS roster in 2024. His speed and minor league success make him a candidate for a 'Triple-A outfield depth' role.
Utility Players:
Ernesto Martínez Jr.: Martínez Jr., a left-handed first baseman, had a strong 2025 season at Triple-A with a .255/.357/.388 slash line. His improvements in drawing walks and limiting strikeouts make him an intriguing prospect.
Seth Brown: Brown, a left-handed hitter, has had a challenging defensive career but showed potential with the Athletics. He could be a primary designated hitter and may take a ticket to Scranton.
Marco Luciano: Luciano, a former top prospect, has faced development setbacks due to injuries. He has bounced around multiple teams, and the Yankees hope to help him regain his potential.
