The New York Yankees are making crucial roster adjustments as they approach a pivotal three-game series against the Kansas City Royals at Yankee Stadium. The team has been hit by injuries and management's decisions reflect an urgent need to adapt and optimize their lineup.
LeMahieu Lands on Injured List
DJ LeMahieu has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a persistent right hip impingement. This lingering issue has been troublesome for the veteran infielder, who has been receiving continuous treatment. Reflecting on LeMahieu's situation, Yankees manager Aaron Boone said, "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 others."
The injury has undeniably impacted LeMahieu's performance this season. Over 67 games, he has batted just .204 with two homers and 26 RBIs. LeMahieu had already missed New York's first 55 games due to a fracture in his right foot, which further hampered his season. Last year, LeMahieu's stats were more promising, as he batted .243 with 15 homers and 44 RBIs in 136 games.
Promising Talent Joins the Ranks
In response to LeMahieu's injury and the need for fresh talent, the Yankees have recalled their top prospect, Jasson Domínguez, from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. The 20-year-old phenom has been impressive in the minor leagues, batting .314 with 11 homers and 35 RBIs in 58 games across three levels this season. Despite an oblique injury on June 15, Domínguez returned on July 26 and has since maintained a stellar performance, batting .309 with seven homers and 25 RBIs for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
"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 remarked. Domínguez is set to make his major league debut at center field and will bat sixth. The Yankees also plan to give him some time in left field, making his versatility an asset for the team.
Pitching Changes and Prospective Moves
In another roster move, the Yankees have designated reliever Anthony Misiewicz for assignment. Misiewicz appeared in one game for New York this season, but held a 3-2 record and a 3.33 ERA in 44 appearances for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. This move signals the Yankees' intent to refine their bullpen as they approach this critical series.
Berti Activated from Injured List
The Yankees also welcomed back Jon Berti from the injured list. Berti missed 90 games due to a left calf strain but was instrumental before his injury, hitting .273 with one homer and six RBIs in 17 games. Berti was acquired in a spring training trade with the Miami Marlins and had a strong start to the season. However, he collapsed in pain a few steps out of the batter's box in San Diego on May 24, an incident that led to his extensive time on the injured list.
The Yankees are now looking to make the most of this period and ensure that their altered roster will help them in the upcoming series. The return of key players and the introduction of promising prospects like Jasson Domínguez add layers of intrigue to their strategy as they head into this crucial juncture of the baseball season.