The Surprising Decision: Why the Yankees Held Back Their Top Prospect During Roster Expansion

As MLB’s roster expansion day approached, New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone was asked about the possibility of outfielder Jasson Domínguez joining the active roster. While Boone acknowledged Domínguez was under consideration for a promotion, it felt like a move that could happen soon. The 21-year-old, the Yankees’ top prospect, had been impressive in 11 Triple-A games, hitting .362 with two homers and minimal strikeouts since his last MLB outing on August 18.

Despite Domínguez’s impressive track record and versatility in the outfield, the Yankees opted for 26-year-old Duke Ellis for the call-up instead. This choice might indicate a greater strategy for Domínguez’s future within the organization.

Boone assured reporters, “He will remain in the conversation moving forward,” adding that the plan would be to play Domínguez regularly once he is brought up. Yankees general manager Brian Cashman also emphasized that Domínguez is healthy and ready for his moment, noting that he’s in a good position, waiting patiently at Triple-A.

Currently, the Yankees’ outfield is quite packed, featuring MVP candidate Aaron Judge and established players Alex Verdugo and Juan Soto. Although Verdugo’s performance has been spotty, he has recently improved. The Yankees’ strategy may be keeping Domínguez in Triple-A to ensure he gets consistent at-bats instead of sporadic appearances in the majors.

Additionally, there may be a strategic side to keeping Domínguez’s rookie eligibility intact. By limiting his at-bats, the Yankees could potentially benefit in the draft if he were to claim Rookie of the Year honors in 2025.

With September looming, there’s a good chance we’ll see Domínguez back in the Bronx, especially since the International League wraps up its regular season ahead of the American League. For now, fans are left eagerly anticipating the day when they’ll see the organization’s promising star take the field.