The New York Yankees are undergoing significant roster changes as they prepare for a crucial three-game series against the Kansas City Royals at Yankee Stadium. A series of moves and injury updates have set the stage for what promises to be an eventful weekend of baseball.
A notable absentee from the Yankees' lineup will be DJ LeMahieu, who has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a persistent right hip impingement. LeMahieu has been battling this lingering issue, receiving ongoing treatment in an attempt to manage his condition. According to Yankees manager Aaron Boone, "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."
LeMahieu's absence is a significant blow for the Yankees. He has hit .204 with two homers and 26 RBIs in 67 games this season. His troubles have not been limited to his hip; he also missed New York’s first 55 games due to a fracture in his right foot. Reflecting on last season, LeMahieu posted a batting average of .243 with 15 homers and 44 RBIs over 136 games.
Promising Young Talent
In a move that has generated excitement among fans, the Yankees have recalled their top prospect, Jasson Domínguez, from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. At just 20 years old, Domínguez is set to make his major league debut at center field and will bat sixth in the lineup. He may also see some time in left field as the series progresses.
Domínguez has been nothing short of impressive in the minors, batting .314 with 11 homers and 35 RBIs across three levels this season. He shook off an oblique injury sustained on June 15 and, since his return on July 26, has continued to impress, batting .309 with seven homers and 25 RBIs for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Boone’s confidence in Domínguez is evident: "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."
Pitching and Injury Update
In a corresponding move, the Yankees have designated reliever Anthony Misiewicz for assignment. Misiewicz had a brief stint with the Yankees this season, appearing in only one game. However, he amassed a 3-2 record and a 3.33 ERA in 44 appearances for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, making him a reliable figure in their minor league setup.
Another significant update comes with the activation of Jon Berti from the injured list. Berti has missed a substantial part of the season, sitting out 90 games due to a left calf strain. Before his injury, he showcased a solid performance, hitting .273 with one homer and six RBIs in 17 games. Berti, who collapsed in pain after a few steps out of the batter’s box in San Diego on May 24, was acquired in a spring training trade with the Miami Marlins.
The Yankees' current roster adjustments reflect the complexity and challenges that a full MLB season brings. With crucial games against the Royals on the horizon, the team is strategically positioning itself to overcome injuries and leverage new talent. Boone’s optimism about Domínguez is clear, as the young prospect’s development has been closely watched. "Like I said on Sept. 1 when we didn't initially recall Jasson, he's in the conversation every single day. I think as much as anything, it's just continuing to build the momentum he's built here over the last few weeks, where we feel like, especially the last couple of weeks, really starting to be in the peak of the season and play at a high level."
As the Yankees navigate these roster shifts, the upcoming series will be a true test of their depth and resilience. With young talent rising to the occasion and seasoned players like LeMahieu and Berti seeking to return to form, the team faces a pivotal moment in its season.