The New York Yankees are undergoing major roster adjustments as they brace for a crucial three-game series against the Kansas City Royals at Yankee Stadium.
DJ LeMahieu to Injured List
DJ LeMahieu, who has been battling a persistent right hip impingement, has been placed on the 10-day injured list. The injury, which has hindered LeMahieu's performance this season, has seen him hit a modest .204 with two homers and 26 RBIs in 67 games. LeMahieu's season has already been hampered by a setback due to a fracture in his right foot, causing him to miss New York's first 55 games.
Yankees 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." Last season, LeMahieu batted .243 with 15 homers and 44 RBIs in 136 games, a stark contrast to his current performance.
Jasson Domínguez Called Up
In response to LeMahieu's absence, the Yankees have recalled their top prospect, Jasson Domínguez, from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. The 20-year-old phenom has been exceptional in the minors, batting .314 with 11 homers and 35 RBIs in 58 games across three minor league levels this season. Domínguez, who dealt with an oblique injury on June 15 but returned on July 26, has since batted .309 with seven homers and 25 RBIs for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Boone expressed his admiration for Domínguez, noting, "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." Boone also hinted at Domínguez's readiness for the major leagues, saying, "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."
Domínguez Major League Debut
Domínguez is set to make his major league debut at center field and bat sixth for the Yankees. He will also see some time in left field, further showcasing his versatility. The excitement around his debut is palpable, as fans and analysts alike are eager to see if his minor league success will translate to the majors.
Anthony Misiewicz Designated for Assignment
Reliever Anthony Misiewicz has been designated for assignment, having appeared in just one game for New York this season. During his time with Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, Misiewicz held a 3-2 record and a 3.33 ERA in 44 appearances. The move marks another shuffle in the Yankees' bullpen as they seek optimal performance during the latter part of the season.
Jon Berti Returns
Meanwhile, infielder Jon Berti has been activated from the injured list after missing 90 games due to a left calf strain. Before the injury, Berti was hitting .273 with one homer and six RBIs in 17 games. Acquired in a spring training trade with the Miami Marlins, Berti's return adds depth to the Yankees' infield. Fans may recall Berti collapsing in pain a few steps out of the batter's box in San Diego on May 24, an incident that sidelined him for a significant portion of the season.
As the Yankees prepare for their critical series against the Royals, these roster changes underscore the team's commitment to addressing its current challenges and optimizing player performance. With LeMahieu on the mend, the Yankees are looking to emerging talents like Domínguez and returning players like Berti to help solidify their lineup in the crucial games ahead.