Yankees" surprising faith in Verdugo impacts Dominguez decision
- Jasson Dominguez is performing well in the minors with a .310 average and .870 OPS.
- Despite calls for his promotion, the Yankees are sticking with Alex Verdugo, who has struggled with a .655 OPS overall.
- The decision to keep Dominguez at Triple-A raises questions about the Yankees' strategy and reliance on Verdugo.
The New York Yankees have faced criticism for their decision to keep top outfield prospect Jasson Dominguez at Triple-A, despite his impressive performance of .310 batting average and .870 OPS in the minors. This decision comes after a pre-September discussion among Yankees executives, where some advocated for Dominguez's promotion. However, GM Brian Cashman and manager Aaron Boone have shown unexpected confidence in Alex Verdugo, who has struggled offensively with a .655 OPS overall and a .547 OPS since June 15. Boone's support for Verdugo has been evident since before his acquisition, and despite Verdugo's recent struggles, the Yankees' leadership remains committed to him. Verdugo has cited an allergy to his batting gloves as a potential reason for his poor performance, which raises questions about his ability to contribute effectively. Meanwhile, Dominguez's potential to enhance the Yankees' lineup is significant, especially with the return of Giancarlo Stanton and the addition of Jazz Chisholm Jr. The Yankees' decision to prioritize Verdugo over Dominguez has sparked debate among fans and insiders, with many believing that Dominguez's talent could provide a much-needed boost to the team. The ongoing situation highlights the tension between the desire to develop young talent and the reliance on established players who may not be performing at their best. Ultimately, the Yankees' choice to keep Dominguez in the minors while Verdugo struggles could have long-term implications for the team's success, as they weigh the benefits of immediate performance against the potential of their top prospect.