The New York Yankees are expected to make a surprising decision on Jasson Dominguez.
Dominguez is competing for a roster spot as he’s been one of the Yankees’ top prospects for a while. Yet, he’s struggled to take the next step, and now he may begin the year in Triple-A.
As spring training has begun, Yankees analysts Brendan Kuty and Chris Kirschner of The Athletic predict Dominguez will begin the year in the minors.
“Yes, this projection sends Jasson Domínguez to Triple A to start the season,” the analysts wrote. “Unfortunately for the 23-year-old former top prospect, that appears to be the most likely scenario — if everyone remains healthy. The Yankees have trusted Domínguez only in left field, which makes him a less-than-ideal fourth outfielder.
“The switch hitter also has yet to show consistent performance against left-handed pitchers, another aspect that makes him a less-than-ideal fit to play a reserve role to Grisham, who historically hasn’t hit them well either. Domínguez deserves a chance to play every day in the majors — and hit from both sides of the plate. But it’s hard to see how that happens unless someone gets hurt.”
Dominguez appeared in 123 games last season, but there may not be a roster spot for him. The outfield is set with Aaron Judge, Cody Bellinger, and Trent Grisham. However, the analysts predict the Yankees will carry utility player Oswaldo Cabrera as the fourth outfielder instead.
Dominguez hit .257 with 10 home runs and 47 RBIs last season with the Yankees.
Yankees Believe Dominguez is an Everyday Player
Dominguez is likely a starting outfielder in the MLB, but that might not come with the Yankees.
If Dominguez doesn’t make the Yankees roster, he could be sent to Triple-A. Yet, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman believes Dominguez deserves everyday reps.
“I would concede it’s in his best interest to be getting everyday reps,” Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said. “We’ll just have to wait and see how the spring shakes out, who’s standing, and then we’ll make the appropriate decisions when we have our meetings close to the end of camp. … There’s flexibility in the roster with a lot of players that we can do a lot of different things with. Whether they’re going north with us or going to Triple A.”
At this time, Dominguez’ path to playing time appears to be blocked, so it does seem likely he will begin the year in Triple-A.
New York Taking Time With Dominguez
The Yankees will have some tough roster decisions to make in spring training.
Yet, Cashman made it clear that no decision is set in stone and spring training results will matter, especially for Dominguez.
“We have to play the spring out and see where it takes us,” Cashman said. “He’ll get his reps along with everybody else, and clearly, we’ll have to make some decisions at the end of camp. Sometimes those decisions get made for us when injuries occur. I guess we’ll wait and see how the spring plays out and do what’s best for us when it’s time to set the roster.”
The Yankees open their season on March 25 against the San Francisco Giants.
Yankees Predicted to Make Surprising Decision on Jasson Dominguez Ahead of Season