The New York Yankees are undergoing a significant roster shake-up as they approach a pivotal three-game series against the Kansas City Royals at Yankee Stadium. The team is dealing with a mix of injuries and exciting call-ups, shifting the dynamics of their roster as they seek to make a crucial push in their season.
DJ LeMahieu Hits the IL
Veteran infielder DJ LeMahieu has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a persistent right hip impingement. LeMahieu has been managing this nagging injury with ongoing treatment. Yankees' manager Aaron Boone noted the variable nature of LeMahieu’s condition, stating, "It's been something that's been kind of lingering on him the last couple of weeks. He's been getting treatment on it. It's kind of better some days, worse the others."
The 34-year-old LeMahieu's performance has been below his usual standards this season. In 67 games, he has posted a .204 batting average with two homers and 26 RBIs. This follows a challenging start to the season, where he missed the first 55 games due to a right foot fracture. Last year, LeMahieu batted .243 with 15 home runs and 44 RBIs in 136 games. The Yankees will need to find a way to compensate for his absence as they navigate the rest of the series and his recovery period.
Top Prospect Jasson Domínguez Gets the Call
In a move that comes with much anticipation, the Yankees have recalled their top prospect, 20-year-old Jasson Domínguez, from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Domínguez, who has been making waves in the minors, will make his major league debut in center field and bat sixth. Boone expressed his admiration and confidence in the young talent, saying, "I think you know my thoughts on him. I've been a huge fan ever since I met him. Just love his makeup, his talent, and he's earned this opportunity."
This season, Domínguez has been impressive, hitting .314 with 11 home runs and 35 RBIs across three minor league levels. After recovering from an oblique injury sustained on June 15, he returned on July 26 and continued his strong performance, batting .309 with seven homers and 25 RBIs for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Boone's comments reflect the team's excitement for Domínguez’s potential impact, stating, "He’s in the conversation every single day. Especially the last couple of weeks, really starting to be in the peak of the season and play at a high level."
Domínguez’s debut will also see him occasionally appearing in left field, adding versatility to his role in the team.
Pitching Changes and Injuries
Alongside these roster adjustments, the Yankees have designated reliever Anthony Misiewicz for assignment. Misiewicz made a single appearance for New York this season. In Triple-A, he recorded a respectable 3-2 record with a 3.33 ERA in 44 appearances for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. His departure opens space for other bullpen options as the Yankees strategize for the upcoming series.
Jon Berti Returns
Additionally, the Yankees have activated Jon Berti from the injured list. Berti had been sidelined for 90 games due to a left calf strain, which he sustained in a painful collapse shortly after leaving the batter's box in San Diego on May 24. Before his injury, Berti was making an impact with a .273 batting average, one homer, and six RBIs in 17 games. Acquired in a spring training trade with the Miami Marlins, his return adds depth and experience to the roster precisely when the Yankees need it most.
As the Yankees prepare for this crucial series against the Royals, the infusion of young talent and the return of injured players aim to provide a much-needed boost. The team’s ability to adapt and overcome these challenges will play a significant role in their efforts to secure success as the season progresses.