As the New York Yankees gear up for a pivotal three-game series against the Kansas City Royals at Yankee Stadium, significant roster adjustments are shaking up the team dynamics. The Yankees have placed DJ LeMahieu on the 10-day injured list due to a persistent right hip impingement that has been troubling him for several weeks.
Manager Aaron Boone acknowledged the challenges LeMahieu has faced, 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." This injury adds to LeMahieu's already difficult season, in which he has batted just .204 with two home runs and 26 RBIs in 67 games. LeMahieu's season has been marred by injuries, having also missed the first 55 games due to a fracture in his right foot.
Amid these challenges, the Yankees have called up their top prospect, Jasson Domínguez, from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. The 20-year-old phenom has shown remarkable prowess in the minors, batting .314 with 11 home runs and 35 RBIs in 58 games this season. Since returning from an oblique injury on July 26, Domínguez has maintained an impressive .309 batting average with seven home runs and 25 RBIs for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Boone has shown immense confidence in Domínguez, highlighting his talent and work ethic. "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 is set to make his major league debut at center field and will bat sixth in the lineup. Additionally, Boone indicated that Domínguez will also see some time in left field as the Yankees explore his versatility.
In a corresponding move, the team has designated reliever Anthony Misiewicz for assignment. Misiewicz's tenure with the Yankees was brief, featuring in just one game this season. However, he recorded a commendable 3-2 record and a 3.33 ERA in 44 appearances for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, showcasing his potential at the minor league level.
Further adding to the roster changes, Jon Berti has been activated from the injured list after missing 90 games due to a left calf strain. Prior to his injury, Berti was performing well, hitting .273 with one home run and six RBIs in 17 games. Berti's injury occurred in a spring training trade with the Miami Marlins, and he collapsed in pain a few steps out of the batter's box in San Diego on May 24.
Boone remains optimistic about the young talent and the impact it could have on the team’s performance. "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 prepare to face the Royals, these roster changes reflect the team's strategy to balance healing veterans with the infusion of young talent. With critical games ahead, the debut of Jasson Domínguez, along with the activation of Jon Berti, is set to inject fresh energy into the squad. Yankees fans will be watching closely as these new developments unfold, hoping that these adjustments can propel the team to a series victory and beyond.