As the Yankees prepare for the ALDS, questions loom over whether their top prospect, Jasson Domínguez, will secure a spot in the starting lineup.
Manager Aaron Boone has recently shed some light on the decision, discussing Domínguez’s role and whether he or veteran outfielder Alex Verdugo will start in left field.
Despite being a highly-touted prospect, Domínguez’s path to the majors was met with hesitation by the Yankees.
Fans were growing restless as the team delayed his call-up, with many eager to see the 21-year-old, nicknamed “The Martian,” in action.
When the Yankees finally promoted Domínguez on September 9, the results were a mixed bag.
Boone reflected on Domínguez’s limited stint in the Bronx: “Obviously had some hiccups in the outfield. He didn’t light up the stat line from an offensive standpoint, but I felt like he was having quality at-bats still,” he said.
“I know what he’s capable of – on both sides of the ball, for that matter – and the speed component he brings to the table. I feel like he’s ready to go,” Boone added.
While Boone’s comments seem encouraging, he stopped short of fully committing to Domínguez.
“Whatever way we go, he’s going to play a big part,” he added, leaving some ambiguity around the decision.
Since his September debut, Domínguez has shown flashes of potential but has struggled at the plate. In 17 games, he’s slashing .192/.333/.327, with one double, two home runs, four RBIs, and five stolen bases.
Despite his raw talent, his lack of experience presents a challenge, especially as the Yankees head into postseason play desperate to snap their World Series drought.
“Obviously, there’s a few plays that have gotten a lot of attention, and understandably so…it’s a tough spot to be in. The compete factor is there. The whole purpose of getting him up when we did is to learn as much as we could,” general manager Brian Cashman said of Domínguez.
One factor complicating Domínguez’s role is the Yankees’ crowded outfield.
Aaron Judge has center field locked down, with Juan Soto in right, and Giancarlo Stanton designated as the DH. This means Domínguez, a natural center fielder, would need to shift to left field, competing directly with Verdugo for the starting spot.
Verdugo, a veteran with postseason experience, hasn’t had a standout season either. In fact, his performance this season has been downright frustrating at times. (But that is the Alex Verdugo experience.)
In September, Verdugo hit .234/.279/.328 with two home runs and seven RBIs in 19 games.
Though he has a track record of solid playoff performance, notably slashing .310/.383/.452 in 11 postseason games with the Red Sox in 2021, his 2024 numbers have been underwhelming, with an OPS+ of just 83.
The decision isn’t straightforward. Domínguez brings youth, speed, and upside, but Verdugo offers experience and steadiness, even if his production has dipped.
Boone’s recent comments suggest the team is still weighing its options, and with Game 1 of the ALDS against the Kansas City Royals set for Saturday, the Bombers still have a little time to make a decision.
Having said that, many fans have grown increasingly frustrated over the organization’s handling of Dominguez.
Where do you stand on the issue? … What should Boone and the powers that be (Brian Cashman) do?
In the bigger picture, is this indeed the year the Yankees finally break their World Series drought???