As the New York Yankees approach a crucial three-game series against the Kansas City Royals at Yankee Stadium, significant roster changes are capturing headlines. DJ LeMahieu, a stalwart of the Yankees' lineup, has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a persistent right hip impingement. This lingering injury has been a concern for weeks, with Yankees manager Aaron Boone noting, "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."
LeMahieu's absence from the lineup is a substantial blow for the Yankees. This season, he has struggled with a .204 batting average, hitting two home runs and driving in 26 runs across 67 games. Earlier in the year, LeMahieu missed the first 55 games due to a fracture in his right foot, which certainly has not helped him regain his prior form. Last season, LeMahieu was more productive, batting .243 with 15 home runs and 44 RBIs over 136 games.
In response to LeMahieu's injury and the need to bolster the lineup, the Yankees have recalled their top prospect, Jasson Domínguez, from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. The 20-year-old Domínguez has shown tremendous promise, batting .314 with 11 home runs and 35 RBIs in 58 games across three minor league levels this season. Despite suffering an oblique injury on June 15 and returning on July 26, Domínguez has impressed, batting .309 with seven home runs and 25 RBIs since his return.
Boone is optimistic about Domínguez's potential impact, 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 at center field and will bat sixth. Additionally, he may also get time in left field, adding a new dynamic to the Yankees' outfield configuration.
Further roster adjustments include designating reliever Anthony Misiewicz for assignment. Misiewicz had a reasonably effective stint in Triple-A with a 3-2 record and a 3.33 ERA over 44 appearances for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. He appeared in one game for New York this season.
Returning to the Yankees' fold is Jon Berti, activated from the injured list after missing an exhausting 90 games due to a left calf strain. Before his injury, Berti was a reliable contributor, batting .273 with one home run and six RBIs in 17 games. Acquired in a spring training trade with the Miami Marlins, Berti's comeback story is remarkable as he collapsed in pain mere steps out of the batter's box in San Diego on May 24. His return offers the Yankees a versatile utility player who can provide much-needed depth as the season reaches its pivotal stages.
As the Yankees navigate these significant roster changes, the focus remains on the immediate challenge against the Royals. The hope is that the infusion of young talent, coupled with the return of experienced players, will provide the necessary spark for a successful series and a strong push towards the postseason.