The New York Yankees are undergoing significant roster adjustments as they prepare for a pivotal three-game series against the Kansas City Royals at Yankee Stadium. These changes come as the team grapples with injuries and attempts to infuse fresh talent into its lineup.
DJ LeMahieu Hits the Injured List
DJ LeMahieu, a cornerstone of the Yankees' roster, has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a persistent right hip impingement. This ailment has plagued him over the past few weeks, despite continuous treatment. 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 performance this season has been underwhelming, with a batting average of .204, two home runs, and 26 RBIs over 67 games. His struggles are further compounded by an earlier foot fracture that sidelined him for the first 55 games of the season. Last year, LeMahieu had a slightly better campaign, hitting .243 with 15 home runs and 44 RBIs in 136 games. The Yankees will undoubtedly miss his presence on the field as they navigate this critical series.
Top Prospect Jasson Domínguez Called Up
In a move that has excited fans and analysts alike, the Yankees have recalled their top prospect, Jasson Domínguez, from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. The 20-year-old phenom has been a standout in the minors, boasting a .314 batting average, 11 home runs, and 35 RBIs across 58 games this season. His return from an oblique injury on June 15 did little to slow him down; since July 26, he's hit .309 with seven home runs and 25 RBIs for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Domínguez is set to make his major league debut in center field and will be batting sixth. He is also expected to see some time in left field. Boone has been vocal about his admiration for Domínguez, stating, "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 debut marks a significant moment for both Domínguez and the Yankees, as they hope his talent can translate seamlessly to the major leagues.
Anthony Misiewicz Designated for Assignment
As part of these roster changes, the Yankees have designated reliever Anthony Misiewicz for assignment. Misiewicz has had limited exposure with the Yankees this season, appearing in just one game. However, he displayed promise in Triple-A, with a 3-2 record and a 3.33 ERA over 44 appearances for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. His departure opens up opportunities for other pitchers within the organization to step up in relief roles.
Jon Berti Activated from Injured List
In another roster update, the Yankees have activated infielder Jon Berti from the injured list. Berti has been sidelined for 90 games due to a left calf strain. Before his injury, he was hitting .273 with one home run and six RBIs over 17 games. The Yankees acquired Berti in a spring training trade with the Miami Marlins, hoping his versatility and speed would add depth to their infield. His return provides a welcome boost at a crucial juncture in the season.
Berti's injury occurred dramatically back on May 24 in San Diego when he collapsed in pain a few steps out of the batter's box. Now that he’s back, the Yankees are optimistic that he can pick up where he left off and contribute meaningfully down the stretch.
Looking Forward
As the Yankees head into this critical series against the Royals, the focus will be on how these roster changes impact the team’s performance. The return of a promising talent like Jasson Domínguez, combined with the reintegration of Jon Berti and the management of DJ LeMahieu's injury, will undoubtedly be key storylines to follow. For manager Aaron Boone, these adjustments are part of the ongoing effort to position the team for success: "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."
The series against the Royals will provide a critical test for this reconfigured Yankees lineup, with fans eager to see how these changes will play out under the lights of Yankee Stadium.