Yankees: Jasson Dominguez could ultimately replace Harrison Bader in the Bronx. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Jasson Dominguez may not be with the Yankees on Opening Day, but he’s coming soon and that could be trouble for these three current players.
Mars isn’t actually the origin of Yankees’ prospect Jasson Dominguez, but his Spring Training play for the club has been otherwordly over the last several weeks. The young outfielder nicknamed “The Martian” upon his arrival with the organization is already putting serious heat on several of the team’s more established veterans.
Through the first nine games of the spring, Dominguez is crushing opposing pitchers. He’s 8 of 19 at the plate with four home runs to his name. His lack of experience at the upper levels of the minor leagues likely means he won’t start the season in the Bronx, but it’s safe to say he’s opened the ideas of Aaron Boone and his coaching staff.
Dominguez is coming to the big leagues sometime in the relatively near future. The only real question is what current player will lose his spot to the talented young prospect. These three outfielders should be concerned.
Yankees players Jasson Dominguez will replace
3. Harrison Bader
Dominguez currently plays center field which makes him a natural fit to be Bader’s long-term successor. Then again, Dominguez could continue to grow which might force him to a corner outfield spot before he makes the big leagues.
The reality that Bader is headed to free agency at the conclusion of the 2023 season also puts him on this list. The team might look to retain him due to his defensive acumen, but Dominguez could make it a lot easier for GM Brian Cashman to let Bader seek greener pastures on the open market.
The odds don’t favor Bader being a Yankee past next season for a variety of reasons, but Dominguez’s presence in the system might be what finally pushes him out the door.