For now, Jones remains in Triple-A, even with Aaron Judge out of action. His future with the Yankees could change dramatically if the Pirates decide to put Skenes on the market. The Yankees' decision to keep Jones, unless it's for Skenes, could be seen as a risky bet, but also as a show of confidence in his potential.

The Yankees are only willing to trade their mashing prospect for Pirates ace — and arguably the industry’s most desirable pitching trade asset — Paul Skenes, and would not include Jones in trade talks with the Marlins for former NL Cy Young winner Sandy Alcantara, according to The Post’s Jon Heyman.