Dominic Smith, the former first-round pick of the Mets, has agreed to a minor league deal with the Yankees, as confirmed by The New York Post. This move is part of the Yankees’ efforts to bolster their roster depth as they aim to return to the World Series in 2025.

Yankees add former Mets first-round pick Dominic Smith on minor league deal

Smith, 29, appeared in 93 major league games during the 2024 season, splitting time between the Cincinnati Reds and Boston Red Sox. Across those stints, he posted a .691 OPS, showcasing modest offensive contributions. The left-handed hitter has transitioned exclusively to first base over the past three seasons, having previously logged time as an outfielder earlier in his career.

The Yankees recently addressed their first base situation by signing veteran Paul Goldschmidt to a one-year, $12.5 million contract. Goldschmidt, a proven right-handed bat and former MVP, is expected to take over first base duties following Anthony Rizzo’s departure. Rizzo, who struggled with injuries during his tenure in the Bronx, remains unsigned this offseason. Adding Smith provides the Yankees with additional flexibility and insurance at the position while also allowing the team to manage their depth chart more effectively.

Smith entered the league with high expectations after being selected 11th overall by the Mets in the 2013 MLB Draft. Regarded as the team’s first baseman of the future at the time, he showed glimpses of his potential during his tenure in New York. His best season came during the COVID-shortened 2020 campaign, where he was a standout performer. That year, he slashed .316/.377/.616, hit 10 home runs, and drove in 42 runs across 50 games. His .993 OPS during that stretch remains a career high.

However, Smith struggled to replicate his 2020 success in subsequent seasons. His offensive production declined in 2021, and he spent much of 2022 in the minor leagues before being let go by the Mets. Since then, he has bounced around the league, playing for several teams in search of a more permanent role. While he hasn’t consistently delivered at the plate in recent years, his defensive reliability at first base remains a strong asset.

Scout sees Dominic Smith as a positive addition for the Yankees

NYP
An anonymous scout, speaking to Randy Miller of New Jersey Advanced Media, praised the Yankees for making the move, calling it a “good signing.” The scout added: “Good kid, good defensive player. Smith’s drawback is he’s not a big runner and has never hit for big power.” These attributes align with the Yankees’ strategy of building depth while maintaining strong defense across the diamond.

Smith’s addition to the Yankees’ system provides a backup option to the 37-year-old Goldschmidt, who remains productive but will benefit from occasional rest throughout the long season. Moreover, it allows the team to give promising young first baseman Ben Rice additional time to develop. Rice, who retained his rookie status heading into 2025, showed potential in limited action last season, appearing in 50 games. Adding a veteran like Smith could help bridge the gap as Rice continues to refine his skills.

The signing, first reported by YES Network, signals the Yankees’ commitment to ensuring they have contingency plans in place for every position. This proactive approach has become a hallmark of their offseason strategy as they look to rebound from a challenging 2024 season and reassert themselves as contenders in the American League.

Smith’s career trajectory serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by former top prospects attempting to meet lofty expectations. While he may not have reached the heights anticipated during his time with the Mets, his defensive skills and potential to contribute in a limited role make him a valuable depth piece for the Yankees. The organization has a history of finding ways to maximize the potential of players in similar situations, and Smith will have an opportunity to prove himself in the coming season.

As the Yankees continue to shape their roster, this signing reflects their focus on balancing proven veterans like Goldschmidt with younger talent and reclamation projects like Smith. With spring training approaching, all eyes will be on how the team integrates these new additions into their plans for 2025.