The New York Yankees are making significant roster adjustments as they gear up for a critical three-game series against the Kansas City Royals at Yankee Stadium. These changes come with the hope of reinvigorating the team as the season intensifies.
DJ LeMahieu Placed on Injured List
One of the most notable changes is the placement of DJ LeMahieu on the 10-day injured list due to a persistent right hip impingement. Yankees manager Aaron Boone addressed 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."
Before this setback, LeMahieu had a tumultuous season, hitting .204 with two homers and 26 RBIs in 67 games. His early season was already marred by a significant injury, missing the first 55 games due to a fracture in his right foot. Last season, LeMahieu batted .243 with 15 homers and 44 RBIs over 136 games, making his current struggles all the more disheartening for Yankees fans.
Enter Jasson Domínguez
In response to LeMahieu's absence, the Yankees have called up their top prospect, Jasson Domínguez, from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Domínguez, who is just 20 years old, has shown remarkable promise this season. Across three minor league levels, he's batted .314 with 11 homers and 35 RBIs in 58 games.
This call-up marks a significant milestone for Domínguez, who overcame an oblique injury from June 15 to return on July 26. Since his return, he has been unstoppable, batting .309 with seven homers and 25 RBIs for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Boone expressed his admiration for 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." Domínguez will make his major league debut at center field and bat sixth but is also expected to see some time in left field.
Moving Pieces in the Bullpen
To make room for these moves, the Yankees have designated reliever Anthony Misiewicz for assignment. Misiewicz had a brief stint in New York, appearing in just one game. However, his performance for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre has been commendable, with a 3-2 record and a 3.33 ERA in 44 appearances.
The Return of Jon Berti
In another twist of fortune, the Yankees have activated Jon Berti from the injured list. Berti had been sidelined for 90 games due to a left calf strain. Before his injury, Berti was a consistent performer, hitting .273 with one homer and six RBIs in 17 games. His injury occurred under dramatic circumstances, collapsing in pain a few steps out of the batter's box during a game in San Diego on May 24.
Berti was acquired in a spring training trade with the Miami Marlins and is expected to bring a much-needed boost to the team's lineup as they head into this pivotal series against the Royals.
Manager's Insight
The reshuffling of the roster comes with a reflection on the challenges and opportunities the Yankees face. Boone's strategic decisions aim to strike a balance between nurturing young talent and maintaining experienced players. "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," Boone remarked.
Looking Ahead
With these roster changes, the Yankees are poised to navigate this crucial series against the Royals with renewed vigor and hope. How the new dynamics will play out on the field remains to be seen, but the blend of seasoned players and fresh prospects offers an intriguing mix for fans and analysts alike. As the season progresses, the performance of players like Jasson Domínguez and the return of Jon Berti could prove pivotal in the Yankees' quest for success.