The New York Yankees are undergoing notable roster changes as they prepare for a pivotal three-game series against the Kansas City Royals at Yankee Stadium. Amid these changes, veteran infielder DJ LeMahieu has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a persistent right hip impingement, a setback that has troubled him over the last few weeks.
"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," noted Yankees manager Aaron Boone regarding LeMahieu's condition.
LeMahieu's contributions this season have been modest, hitting just .204 with two homers and 26 RBIs in 67 games. His absence is further compounded by the fact that the 34-year-old missed New York's first 55 games due to a fracture in his right foot, an injury that significantly hampered his performance. Last season, LeMahieu batted .243 with 15 homers and 44 RBIs across 136 games, numbers he and the team were hoping to surpass this year.
Promising Prospect Joins the Ranks
In light of LeMahieu's injury, the Yankees have responded by recalling their highly touted prospect, Jasson Domínguez, from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. The 20-year-old has shown tremendous potential, hitting .314 with 11 homers and 35 RBIs in 58 games across three minor league levels this season. Domínguez, who suffered an oblique injury on June 15 and returned to action on July 26, has been nothing short of spectacular since his return, posting a .309 average with seven homers and 25 RBIs for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Boone expressed his admiration for Domínguez, stating, "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 is set to make his major league debut in center field and will bat sixth. He will also see some time in left field, adding versatility to the Yankees' lineup. Despite a ligament tear in his throwing elbow last September, Domínguez has recovered well, ready to make an impact at the highest level.
Pitching Adjustments and Reinforcements
The Yankees have also made moves in their pitching department. Reliever Anthony Misiewicz has been designated for assignment. Misiewicz appeared in only one game for New York this season but had a solid record in Triple-A, boasting a 3-2 record and a 3.33 ERA in 44 appearances for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Veteran Presence Returns
Another significant roster move sees Jon Berti returning from the injured list. Berti, who was acquired in a spring training trade with the Miami Marlins, missed 90 games due to a left calf strain he suffered on May 24 in San Diego. Before his injury, Berti was hitting .273 with one home run and six RBIs in 17 games, offering a consistent veteran presence in the Yankees' lineup.
Berti's return is timely as the Yankees look to strengthen their depth and make a push for playoff contention. His collapse in pain just steps out of the batter's box back in May was concerning, but his recovery and return could provide a much-needed boost to the team.
As the Yankees brace for the crucial series against the Royals, these roster changes could be pivotal. Whether it's the return of Berti, the debut of Domínguez, or the temporary loss of LeMahieu, these adjustments highlight a team in flux, striving to find the right balance and momentum as the season progresses.