The New York Yankees are undergoing significant roster changes as they prepare for a pivotal three-game series against the Kansas City Royals at Yankee Stadium. With their playoff aspirations hanging in the balance, the team is shuffling its roster in hopes of bolstering its chances.
DJ LeMahieu Lands on the Injured List
A considerable dent in the Yankees' lineup is the placing of DJ LeMahieu on the 10-day injured list due to a lingering right hip impingement. LeMahieu, who has been receiving treatment for this issue, has seen his performance hampered by the injury. Describing the 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 the others."
This season, LeMahieu has struggled at the plate, batting .204 with two home runs and 26 RBIs over the course of 67 games. His health troubles started early this season after missing the first 55 games due to a fracture in his right foot. Last season saw him post a .243 average with 15 homers and 44 RBIs in 136 games. The Yankees are hopeful that some rest will allow LeMahieu to recover fully and return strong to finish the season.
Yankees Call Up Top Prospect Jasson Domínguez
Injecting new blood into the roster, the Yankees have called up their top prospect, Jasson Domínguez, from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Domínguez, a 20-year-old phenom, has been tearing up the minor leagues. He boasts a .314 batting average, 11 home runs, and 35 RBIs across three levels this season. Domínguez will make his major league debut in center field, batting sixth in the lineup, and is also expected to see some action in left field.
Boone expressed high praise for the young talent, 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." Domínguez did face setbacks this season, including an oblique injury on June 15 and a torn ligament in his throwing elbow last September. However, since returning from his oblique injury on July 26, Domínguez has been impressive, batting .309 with seven homers and 25 RBIs for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Boone added, "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."
Anthony Misiewicz Designated for Assignment
To make room on the roster, the Yankees have designated reliever Anthony Misiewicz for assignment. Misiewicz has only appeared in one game for New York this season but has been more active with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, where he posted a 3-2 record and a 3.33 ERA in 44 appearances. His departure clears the way for new talent to step in as the Yankees seek to strengthen their bullpen.
Jon Berti Activated from the Injured List
Another reinforcement comes in the form of Jon Berti, who has been activated from the injured list after missing 90 games due to a left calf strain. Known for his versatility, Berti was acquired in a spring training trade with the Miami Marlins. Prior to his injury, he had been hitting .273 with one homer and six RBIs in 17 games. His injury occurred on May 24 in San Diego when he collapsed in pain after a few steps out of the batter's box.
As the Yankees gear up for this crucial series against the Royals, these roster moves reflect a blend of strategic planning and hope for a resurgence in the latter part of the season. The team is aiming to strike a balance between nurturing emerging talent and relying on the experience of seasoned players to navigate through the pressures of the playoff race.