The New York Yankees are undergoing significant roster adjustments as they prepare for a crucial three-game series against the Kansas City Royals at Yankee Stadium. Key players are moving in and out of the lineup, and new prospects are being given their chance to shine. These changes come at a pivotal moment in the Yankees' season.
DJ LeMahieu Placed on Injured List
DJ LeMahieu has been a central figure in the Yankees’ lineup, but he's now been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a persistent right hip impingement. "It's been something that's been kind of lingering on him the last couple of weeks," Yankees manager Aaron Boone stated. "He's been getting treatment on it. It's kind of better some days, worse the others." Over the course of the season, LeMahieu has struggled at the plate, hitting just .204 with two homers and 26 RBIs in 67 games.
LeMahieu has faced multiple setbacks this year, having already missed the first 55 games due to a fracture in his right foot. In contrast, last season he was a more reliable presence, batting .243 with 15 homers and 44 RBIs across 136 games. His absence leaves a noticeable gap in the Yankees’ infield and lineup.
Jasson Domínguez Promoted to the Major Leagues
The Yankees are looking towards the future by calling up their top prospect, Jasson Domínguez, from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. The 20-year-old outfielder has shown considerable promise this season, batting .314 with 11 homers and 35 RBIs in 58 games across three minor league levels. Despite an oblique injury sidelining him on June 15, Domínguez returned on July 26 and has excelled ever since, batting .309 with seven homers and 25 RBIs for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Domínguez's promotion is a move welcomed with excitement. He will make his major league debut in center field and bat sixth in the lineup, while also seeing time in left field. Boone has been a long-time supporter of Domínguez. "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 said.
His journey to this point hasn’t been without challenges, including a torn ligament in his throwing elbow last September. Yet his recent performances suggest he is more than ready for the big leagues. Boone also emphasized the importance of Domínguez's consistency, "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."
Other Roster Moves
In additional moves, the Yankees have designated reliever Anthony Misiewicz for assignment. Misiewicz's stint with the Yankees has been brief; he appeared in just one game this season. In his tenure with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, Misiewicz recorded a 3-2 record and a 3.33 ERA in 44 appearances, showcasing his solid performance at the minor league level.
Moreover, utility player Jon Berti has been activated from the injured list. Berti, who missed 90 games due to a left calf strain, had shown potential earlier in the season, hitting .273 with one homer and six RBIs in 17 games. Acquired in a spring training trade with the Miami Marlins, Berti collapsed in pain just a few steps out of the batter's box in San Diego on May 24, marking the beginning of his long road to recovery.
With these roster changes, the Yankees are mixing veteran presence with young talent as they aim to stay competitive. The upcoming series against the Royals will be a test of their restructured lineup’s resilience and depth. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these changes impact the Yankees’ trajectory as the season progresses.