Yankees Experiment with Jasson Domínguez in Right Field During Rehab Assignment

CLEVELAND — The New York Yankees initiated a new approach with Jasson Domínguez on Tuesday, placing him in right field during his rehab stint with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. This shift comes as Domínguez recovers from an AC joint sprain, a condition that has limited his playtime significantly. Previously, he had only appeared in one game in right field, primarily playing center and left in the majors.

With Aaron Judge sidelined due to a fractured rib and Cody Bellinger excelling defensively in left field, the Yankees see potential in having Domínguez adapt to right field. Manager Aaron Boone noted, “The reports yesterday are that he was very comfortable doing it, which is good," adding that the transition appeared seamless and that Domínguez was pleased to explore new ways to contribute to the team.

Boone confirmed Domínguez would take the field in right again on Wednesday evening. He highlighted that Bellinger’s status as one of the top defensive left fielders has influenced the decision to move Domínguez around, particularly after the young player faced challenges adapting to left field in previous seasons.

Domínguez, whose development has been hampered by various injuries, originally came up as a center fielder. Boone expressed the importance of versatility, stating, “We invested so much in switching Jasson to left field before last year to try and help with the transition,” while also recognizing the value of having him capable of playing in multiple outfield positions.

As the Yankees prepare for a series against the Blue Jays in Toronto, Boone indicated that Domínguez's return to the active roster is uncertain. Possible roster moves may include demoting struggling shortstop Anthony Volpe or underused Max Schuemann, but having both Domínguez and Spencer Jones would provide the team with a surplus of outfield talent.

In his recent game, Domínguez demonstrated his potential by going 3 for 3 with a home run while exclusively hitting from the right side. Historically considered his weaker side, he has shown improvement this season, boasting a 1.245 OPS against lefties in the minors and a 1.000 OPS in limited big league appearances.