The New York Yankees fans finally had their dream come true as the team called for Jasson Dominguez for their game against the Kansas City Royals. Dominguez’s appearance called for celebration, but it also meant someone from the lineup would have their field time cut short.
Since September 1, fans and critics have been questioning the Yankees’ decision to keep Alex Verdugo in the lineup despite his slump, while not bringing in Dominguez who’s having a solid game with the minor league. NY executive Brian Cashman and manager Aaron Boone time and again vouched for Verdugo, claiming he’ll have his comeback anytime.
They were adamant about keeping the season going with the current lineup, but in the end, Jasson Dominguez was called up for the game on Monday night. His call-up came after the Yanks put DJ LeMahieu on 10-day IL.
Many had questions regarding Alex Verdugo and Dominguez but they were both seen chatting on the field with no hard feelings. During the game, Verdugo shot a two-run homer while the rookie recorded a single and a stolen base in NY’s 10-4 victory.
Alex Verdugo is prepared to take a back seat if it means the Yankees are winning games pic.twitter.com/SyDFhY2W0B
— Talkin’ Yanks (@TalkinYanks) September 10, 2024
Verdugo said he doesn’t mind Dominguez in the lineup even if it means his playtime may be cut short. He just wants to focus on winning, and he’ll go with whatever the team decides is better for future games and playoffs.
He’s going to come up here and play and help this team win. Whatever that means, it means, right? If I lose a little bit of playing time, I lose a little bit of playing time. At the end of the day, I want to win. The only thing that matters is getting to the playoffs and winning there.Alex Verdugo as per Brendan Kuty of NY Times.
Dominguez’s return to the Yankees roster immediately boosted their victory. It seems like other players including Verdugo are hyped up as a few games remain before playoffs. Their latest victory boosted the team 1 ½ games ahead of their divisional rivals the Baltimore Orioles.
Brian Cashman on Jasson Dominguez’s call to Yankees lineup
During Friday’s press conference, NY Yankees executive Brian Cashman talked about how he expects Jasson Dominguez to play many games if he is to be called back. Dominguez underwent Tommy John surgery which pushed back his 2024 debut, but unfortunately, he suffered an oblique strain which further pushed back his comeback to the major leagues.
Both Cashman and Aaron Boone wished for the outfielder to play a few more games in the Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Regardless of all the setbacks, the fans and players welcomed Dominguez to the lineup.
Of course, a lot of excitement. I was a little nervous when I got to the field, but when I started going it (went) away.Jasson Dominguez as per Brendan Kuty of NY Times.
Jasson Dominguez is making things happen! Yanks on the board pic.twitter.com/9zdkkUIOHG
— Talkin’ Yanks (@TalkinYanks) September 10, 2024
When Verdugo was asked how he felt to see Dominguez in the lineup, he said, “But I’m sure we’ll find out shortly.” For now, the lineup seems strong, and with the team ahead of the Orioles for the playoff games, things are starting to look more positive,
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