Yankees GM Brian Cashman clarifies why Alex Verdugo will continue to start ahead of Jasson Dominguez amid playoff possibility
The New York Yankees have one of the top outfield prospects in the majors in the shape of Jasson Dominguez. The 21-year-old appeared to have an opportunity to cement himself in the Yankees lineup last season, however, a combination of Tommy John Surgery in 2023 and a significant oblique injury earlier this year has kept him away from the big club.
That being said, Dominguez has since recovered from his various ailments and is tearing the cover off the ball in Triple-A. This has raised questions from New York fans as to why he has not been promoted to the MLB roster. Well, GM Brian Cashman spoke about the decision.
Cashman spoke to the media before Friday's series against the Chicago Cubs, diving into the Dominguez situation. According to MLB insider Bryan Hoch, Cashman explained that the club believes veteran Alex Verdugo gives them a better chance to win.
"If he comes, he's got to play everyday," the New York Yankees GM said of Dominguez.
Even though it is refreshing to see an organization show its faith in a proven veteran, the numbers right now might dispute the statement that Verdugo gives the Yankees a better chance to win. Through 134 games this season, Verdugo has posted a .235 batting average with 11 home runs and 56 RBIs.
In comparison, Jasson Dominguez has been unstoppable in the minors since returning from injury. The young outfielder known as "The Martian" has posted a .318 batting average with 11 home runs, 34 RBIs, and 16 stolen bases. While the differences between the MLB and the minors are noticeable, it may be worth giving their young phenom an opportunity sooner rather than later.
Jasson Dominguez was dominant in limited MLB action last season
Aside from the frustrations that fans have had with Alex Verdugo this season, another reason why many are hoping to see Dominguez in the majors is because of his debut last year. The native of Esperanza, Dominican Republic made his long-awaited MLB debut on September 1, 2023, and certainly did not disappoint.
Although a UCL tear limited Jasson Dominguez to only eight games last season, the young outfielder made a first impression like none other. Throughout those eight games, Dominguez launched four home runs and posted a .980 OPS. While the injury ended his season early, it's clear that the Yankees have a future star on their hands. The only question is whether we will see him up this year.