Yankees’ Latest Move Focuses on Maximizing Veteran’s Strengths Over Emerging Talent

Yankees’ Latest Move Focuses on Maximizing Veteran’s Strengths Over Emerging Talent

 

At the end of the 2023 season, Jasson Dominguez played a key role in helping the New York Yankees overcome their struggles in Houston, hitting a memorable first-inning home run during his MLB debut. Since then, the Yankees have gone 7-0 in their last seven regular season games at that notoriously difficult ballpark. Now, as spring training approaches, Dominguez faces a new challenge: according to manager Aaron Boone, the plan is for Cody Bellinger to start in center field, with Dominguez shifting back to left field, the position where he struggled last September, limiting his postseason opportunities.

 

 

 

 

It’s hard to argue with Bellinger’s defensive prowess—he has a career +10 DRS and +19 OAA in center field, bringing exceptional range to the position. The hope is that his skills will help cover for any weaknesses Dominguez might have. On the flip side, Dominguez’s struggles in left field last fall at Yankee Stadium, a notoriously challenging position, raise concerns. It might be smarter for the Yankees to prioritize Dominguez’s comfort and potential growth, trusting Bellinger to adjust to center field if needed.

 

 

 

 

While this move could push Dominguez to prove himself in a position where he’s less comfortable, it could also open up opportunities for other players, like Everson Pereira, if Dominguez doesn’t perform well. However, trading Dominguez after a disappointing 2024 would be a mistake, given his potential and power. The Yankees need to give him time to develop, as they remain a strong team with room to adjust. Bellinger’s versatility, once seen as an asset for other positions, will likely prove valuable in center field for now, but as the season progresses, a shift to left field could still be on the table.