Jason Dominguez Returns to Yankees Amid Roster Changes

ARLINGTON, Texas — Jason Dominguez is back behind the wheel of a Lamborghini after a mishap with his Corolla.

While this luxury vehicle might just be a rental, Dominguez is determined to enjoy the experience.

The 23-year-old outfielder recently shared that his return to the minors after making a brief major league appearance last season felt like switching from a Lamborghini to a Corolla. After being promoted to Triple-A right at the end of spring training, he’s now been called up by the Yankees as they weigh whether or not to place Giancarlo Stanton on the disabled list.

If Stanton ends up on the 10-day IL—he had an MRI on Monday, and the team was waiting for the results—it could create a roster need as early as Friday if Anthony Volpe is ready to come off the IL.

There’s also speculation that Dominguez could take Luis Gil’s spot, moving the pitcher to Triple-A and potentially shifting some positions around.

In the meantime, Dominguez is gearing up to showcase his skills against the Rangers, as the Yankees are set to face three right-handed pitchers in this series.

“In Triple-A, your main goal is to get back to the majors,” Dominguez said Monday at Globe Life Field. “I’m here now, so I want to enjoy it and support the team.”

Last season, Dominguez had an impact with the Yankees, but his playing time dwindled in the second half due to Trent Grisham’s ascent. He was also tasked with defensive roles in left field, while struggles as a switch hitter added to his challenges.

After Grisham accepted a qualifying offer this offseason and Cody Bellinger was re-signed, Dominguez found himself sidelined from a regular spot on the major league team.

Despite this setback, the once-promising prospect maintained a calm demeanor, focusing on his game in Triple-A.

In 24 games with Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, he boasted a .326 batting average with an OPS of .893, including three home runs and eight stolen bases.

What’s even more promising is his performance against left-handed pitchers—he hit .389 (seven hits in 18 at-bats) from the right side, with an impressive OPS of 1.172.

Manager Aaron Boone praised Dominguez’s adaptation, describing his response as “phenomenal.” He emphasized that Dominguez’s character has shone through during the past months, especially with the pre-season buzz hinting he might start in Triple-A. “He showed up early, performed well in spring training, and then went to Triple-A,” Boone noted.

Boone acknowledged that young players often falter after early success at the major league level, but Dominguez bucked that trend by working hard and improving.

His effectiveness against lefties is valuable, especially with a crowded Yankees outfield. If Dominguez solidifies his place, he could be in contention for the fourth outfielder role, currently held by Randal Grichuk.

Indications are that Dominguez may start in left field during the upcoming series, with Aaron Judge available for designated hitter duties. Boone pointed out that while Dominguez’s defense in Triple-A has been “so-so,” his offensive performance has shown more consistency.

“I understand the team’s decision for me to go to Triple-A,” Dominguez said. “It was a good learning experience, and I’m focused on improving.”