Yankees rookie Jasson Dominguez in action during a late-season game, looking to earn a role in the ALDS

As the New York Yankees prepare for the 2025 season, all eyes are on rising prospect Jasson Dominguez. The 21-year-old outfielder has emerged as a potential leadoff option, an idea floated by YES Network’s Jack Curry during a recent hot stove show. With his speed, power, and raw talent, Dominguez could be the key to unlocking a more dynamic lineup for the Bronx Bombers.

This comes after a whirlwind offseason where the Yankees completed a series of big moves to reshape their roster. Despite their aggressive approach, the team has signaled they are done spending, opting to finalize their roster with in-house talent and smaller adjustments.

Dominguez’s struggles and promise

Yankees rookie Jasson Dominguez in action during a late-season gameAP
Dominguez had a brief and uneven MLB debut in 2024, appearing in just 18 games and slashing .179/.313/.304. While those numbers are underwhelming, the limited sample size and inconsistent playing time hindered his ability to find a rhythm. However, Dominguez showed flashes of his potential, hitting two home runs and maintaining a .313 on-base percentage.

Where he truly shined was in Triple-A, posting a .314/.376/.504 line with 11 home runs, 35 RBIs, and 16 stolen bases in 58 games. His 135 wRC+ showcased his advanced approach at the plate, blending power and speed in a way that makes him an exciting candidate for a leadoff role.

Leadoff hitters are expected to set the tone for the lineup, getting on base and creating scoring opportunities. Dominguez’s ability to draw walks, combined with his speed and switch-hitting versatility, gives him the tools to grow into this role. His Triple-A success suggests that with consistent playing time, he could excel as the Yankees’ leadoff hitter.

Yankees complete major offseason overhaul

In October, 2024, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman (C) talks to Omar Minaya, special assistant to the general manager of the New York Yankees.NYP
While Dominguez represents the Yankees’ future, the team made significant moves this offseason to bolster their immediate competitiveness. After losing Juan Soto to the Mets on a historic 15-year, $765 million deal, the Yankees acted quickly to retool.

Notable acquisitions included left-hander Max Fried, signed for eight years and $218 million, and former MVP first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, added on a one-year, $12.5 million deal. The Yankees also traded for outfielder Cody Bellinger and closer Devin Williams, further strengthening their lineup and bullpen.

Re-signing reliever Jonathan Loáisiga on a $5 million deal highlights their focus on maintaining bullpen depth, while trading backup catcher Jose Trevino allowed them to bring in additional assets like reliever Fernando Cruz.

General manager Brian Cashman has been clear: the Yankees are finished making blockbuster moves, with the team’s payroll already at $270.6 million, second only to the Dodgers.

What’s next for the Yankees

With a revamped roster and emerging stars like Jasson Dominguez, the Yankees are positioning themselves as strong contenders in the American League. Dominguez’s Steamer projections for 2025—.249/.326/.417 with 18 home runs and 63 RBIs—reflect his potential to make a significant impact.

Defensively, Dominguez’s athleticism ensures he’ll be a valuable outfielder, whether in left or center. Meanwhile, the Yankees will look to integrate their new additions while keeping an eye on remaining roster tweaks, such as moving Marcus Stroman’s contract or adding a left-handed reliever.

As the Yankees move toward spring training, all eyes will be on their new-look lineup and whether Dominguez can seize the leadoff role. With a mix of veteran stars and young talent, the Bronx Bombers are setting the stage for an exciting 2025 season.

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