The New York Yankees are gearing up for a pivotal three-game series against the Kansas City Royals at Yankee Stadium, making notable roster adjustments to strengthen their line-up.
LeMahieu Hits the Injured List
DJ LeMahieu's ongoing struggle with a right hip impingement has landed him on the 10-day injured list. This hip issue has been a persistent thorn in his side throughout the season. Yankees manager Aaron Boone remarked, "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 absence creates a significant gap in the Yankees' offense. Over the 67 games he played this season, he hit a meager .204 with two homers and 26 RBIs. His return this season has been less than stellar, especially after missing New York's first 55 games due to a fracture in his right foot. Last season, LeMahieu posted a .243 average, with 15 homers and 44 RBIs in 136 games, numbers far better than the current output.
Jasson Domínguez's Major League Debut
In a move to bolster their roster, the Yankees have called up their highly-touted prospect, Jasson Domínguez, from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. The 20-year-old has been making waves in the minor leagues, batting an impressive .314 with 11 homers and 35 RBIs in 58 games across various levels. Since his return on July 26, following an oblique injury on June 15, Domínguez has been in exceptional form, hitting .309 with seven homers and 25 RBIs for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Boone expressed his admiration for the young talent, "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 be making his major league debut in center field, batting sixth, and he is also expected to spend some time in left field.
Changes in the Bullpen
To make room for Domínguez, the Yankees have designated reliever Anthony Misiewicz for assignment. Misiewicz appeared in just one game for New York this season, though he showed promise with a 3-2 record and 3.33 ERA over 44 appearances for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. The Yankees will be hoping this move provides more consistency in their bullpen as they push for a strong finish to the season.
Jon Berti Returns from Injury
Additionally, the Yankees have activated infielder Jon Berti from the injured list. Berti has been sidelined for a considerable time, missing 90 games due to a left calf strain. Before his injury, Berti maintained a solid .273 average with one homer and six RBIs in 17 games. Acquired in a spring training trade with the Miami Marlins, Berti's return could provide much-needed depth and versatility for the Yankees.
Berti's injury had been a severe setback, collapsing in pain just steps out of the batter’s box in San Diego on May 24, but his recovery will be watched closely as he looks to regain his pre-injury form. His reintroduction to the team comes at a crucial time, adding both defensive prowess and offensive capability.
The Yankees’ approach to these roster changes highlights their commitment to making a strong playoff push. Manager Aaron Boone has noted the importance of timing and building momentum, and the combined return of Berti and the debut of Domínguez could inject the lineup with fresh energy and talent as they navigate the season's critical juncture.
These moves reflect a strategic recalibration for the Yankees, who are striving to overcome recent injuries and underperformances. As the team sets its sights on the playoff picture, the integration of promising prospects and the return of tested players will be fundamental in determining how they fare in the upcoming series and beyond.