In a move reflective of their commitment to making a strong playoff push, the New York Yankees are undertaking significant roster changes ahead of a crucial three-game series against the Kansas City Royals at Yankee Stadium.
LeMahieu Placed on Injured List
DJ LeMahieu, who has been an integral part of the Yankees' lineup, has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a persistent right hip impingement. This injury has been a lingering issue for LeMahieu over the past few weeks.
"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," said Yankees manager Aaron Boone. Despite receiving treatment, the injury has hampered LeMahieu's performance, as he has hit only .204 with two homers and 26 RBIs in 67 games this season. The infielder had already missed New York's first 55 games due to a fracture in his right foot, a tough blow considering he batted .243 with 15 homers and 44 RBIs in 136 games last season.
Yankees Call Up Top Prospect Jasson Domínguez
In a significant development, the Yankees have decided to call up their top prospect, Jasson Domínguez, from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. The 20-year-old phenom has been turning heads in the minor leagues, batting .314 with 11 homers and 35 RBIs across three minor league levels this season.
Boone expressed his enthusiasm about 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." The young prospect had dealt with an oblique injury on June 15 but made a strong return on July 26, batting .309 with seven homers and 25 RBIs for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre since coming back.
Domínguez, who will make his major league debut at center field and bat sixth, will also see some time in left field. Adding versatility and youthful energy to the Yankees' outfield, Domínguez aims to make an immediate impact at the major league level. It’s an exciting time for the Yankees' faithful, as they get a glimpse of what the future holds with this promising new talent.
Anthony Misiewicz Designated for Assignment
To make room for Domínguez on the roster, the Yankees have designated reliever Anthony Misiewicz for assignment. Misiewicz made only one appearance for New York this season but had a solid run with Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, posting a 3-2 record and a 3.33 ERA in 44 appearances.
Jon Berti Activated from Injured List
In another roster move, the Yankees have activated Jon Berti from the injured list. Berti, who missed 90 games due to a left calf strain, was acquired in a spring training trade with the Miami Marlins. Before his injury, Berti was performing well, hitting .273 with one homer and six RBIs in 17 games. Unfortunately, Berti's condition had escalated when he collapsed in pain a few steps out of the batter's box in San Diego on May 24.
As the Yankees brace for the series against the Royals, these roster adjustments are a testament to their proactive approach in dealing with injuries and augmenting their squad with fresh talent. With LeMahieu on the mend and Domínguez stepping into the spotlight, the Yankees are navigating the ebbs and flows of a challenging season with strategic precision.
Only time will tell how these moves will shape the Yankees’ campaign, but the infusion of young talent and the careful management of injuries could be critical in their pursuit of postseason success.