As the New York Yankees prepare for a pivotal three-game series against the Kansas City Royals at Yankee Stadium, major roster moves have been implemented, headlined by notable changes that could shape the team's trajectory in the weeks to come.
LeMahieu Hits Injured List
Veteran infielder DJ LeMahieu has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a lingering right hip impingement. The injury, which has been an ongoing issue, has required consistent treatment. “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,” Yankees manager Aaron Boone noted.
LeMahieu, who has struggled to find his footing this season, has hit just .204 with two home runs and 26 RBIs over 67 games. His performance this year was further hampered by a fracture in his right foot, which caused him to miss New York's first 55 games. Comparatively, last season saw him bat .243 with 15 homers and 44 RBIs in 136 games, marking a noticeable decline that the team will be monitoring closely as he works towards recovery.
Domínguez's Anticipated Debut
In a move aimed at bolstering their lineup, the Yankees have called up their top prospect, 20-year-old Jasson Domínguez, from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Domínguez has been impressive in the minors, boasting a .314 batting average with 11 homers and 35 RBIs across 58 games at three different minor league levels this season. Notably, after returning from an oblique injury on July 26, he managed to maintain a high performance, hitting .309 with seven home runs and 25 RBIs for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Cementing his place in the major leagues, Domínguez is set to make his debut at center field, batting sixth in the lineup. Boone expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “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.” Additionally, fans can expect to see Domínguez in left field periodically as he adjusts to the major league pace.
Misiewicz Designated for Assignment
To make room for these roster changes, reliever Anthony Misiewicz has been designated for assignment. Misiewicz's contribution to New York was brief, as he appeared in only one game this season. However, his performance for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre was commendable with a 3-2 record and a 3.33 ERA over 44 appearances. The team will now need to decide his future with the Yankees as the MLB season progresses.
Berti's Return from Injury
Adding another dynamic to the roster, the Yankees have activated utility player Jon Berti from the injured list. Berti missed 90 games due to a left calf strain sustained dramatically when he collapsed in pain a few steps out of the batter's box in San Diego on May 24. Before his injury, Berti was acquired in a spring training trade from the Miami Marlins, and had a modest batting average of .273 with one home run and six RBIs in 17 games. His return provides a versatile option for Boone as he navigates the final stretch of the regular season.
The series against the Royals will be critical for the Yankees as they attempt to secure a stronger position within their division. The integration of the new and returning players will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. Ultimately, how these players perform could significantly impact the Yankees' season-long ambitions.