The New York Yankees are shaking things up ahead of their crucial three-game series against the Kansas City Royals at Yankee Stadium, making several key roster moves that highlight both challenges and opportunities for the iconic franchise.
LeMahieu Hits the Injured List
One of the most notable changes involves veteran infielder DJ LeMahieu, who has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a lingering right hip impingement. This injury has been a persistent issue for LeMahieu, who has been receiving treatment for several weeks. Yankees manager Aaron Boone expressed the frustration of the situation, stating, "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 season has been marred by injuries, having already missed the first 55 games due to a fracture in his right foot. In the 67 games he has played, he has struggled to find his form, hitting just .204 with two home runs and 26 RBIs. This is a significant drop-off from his previous season, where he batted .243 with 15 homers and 44 RBIs over 136 games. The Yankees are undoubtedly hoping for a speedy recovery as they look to make a push in this crucial part of the season.
Promising Prospects and New Assignments
In contrast to LeMahieu's setback, the Yankees are also injecting youthful energy into their roster with the recall of their top prospect, Jasson Domínguez, from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. The 20-year-old phenom has impressed across three minor league levels this season, batting .314 with 11 home runs and 35 RBIs in 58 games. His return from an oblique injury on June 15 was marked by an even more impressive stint with Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, hitting .309 with seven homers and 25 RBIs since July 26.
Manager Aaron Boone has high expectations for the young talent, stating, "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 also alluded to the strategic timing of Domínguez's call-up, saying, "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."
Domínguez is set to make his major league debut at center field, batting sixth in the lineup. His dynamic skills will be tested at center field, with additional opportunities in left field, providing versatility to the Yankees' defensive setup.
Adjustments in the Bullpen and Beyond
While adding promising talent, the Yankees have also made room on their roster by designating reliever Anthony Misiewicz for assignment. Misiewicz, who appeared in just one game for the Yankees this season, had been a steady presence in Scranton/Wilkes-Barre with a 3-2 record and a 3.33 ERA over 44 appearances. This move underscores the Yankees' focus on optimizing their pitching staff as they push toward the postseason.
A Welcome Return
Another significant development is the activation of Jon Berti from the injured list. Berti had been sidelined for 90 games due to a left calf strain. Acquired in a spring training trade with the Miami Marlins, Berti had shown promise earlier in the season, hitting .273 with one homer and six RBIs in 17 games before his injury. His return adds depth and experience to the Yankees' roster.
Berti's road to recovery wasn't easy. He collapsed in pain just a few steps out of the batter's box in San Diego on May 24, an incident that highlighted the severity of his injury. However, his comeback is a testament to his resilience and determination, traits that will undoubtedly be valuable as the Yankees forge ahead.
These roster changes come at a crucial time for the Yankees, who are looking to build momentum and secure a strong finish to the season. With a mix of experienced veterans and promising new talent, the team hopes to navigate through these challenges and make a significant impact in the games ahead. Yankees fans will be eagerly watching as the series against the Royals unfolds, looking for signs of a team ready to rise to the occasion.