The Yankees seem to be inching toward a decision on their leadoff spot, even if they aren’t making any grand announcements just yet.
General manager Brian Cashman kept things vague during a Thursday interview with the YES Network, but he did suggest that Aaron Boone has a direction in mind, though he wasn’t sure if the manager had made it public.
Boone, however, has already hinted at the idea of Jasson Dominguez getting a crack at the role, which would signal a shift in philosophy at the top of the lineup. With Gleyber Torres departing in free agency, the Yankees are in search of a table-setter, and Dominguez might just fit the bill.
The Case for Dominguez at Leadoff
At first glance, Dominguez doesn’t scream “traditional leadoff hitter.” He’s known more for his raw power than for slapping singles the other way. But with the modern game evolving, the Yankees could be prioritizing explosive potential over a classic high-contact, high-OBP approach.
Dominguez has already flashed his ability to drive the ball out of the park, hitting six home runs in just 26 big league games while posting a .437 slugging percentage. He’s also shown solid on-base ability in the minors and possesses the kind of speed that could make him a weapon on the base paths.
There’s no question Dominguez is still an unfinished product. He’s played just 26 MLB games, hitting .207/.310/.437 with 11 RBIs and a 109 wRC+. His defense remains a work in progress, as he adjusts to his long-term home in left field.
That said, the Yankees seem committed to letting him grow into a major role, and leading off would provide him with maximum at-bats and a chance to refine his approach. If Dominguez can settle into a rhythm early, his blend of power and speed could bring a new dynamic to the top of the Yankees’ order, making him a dangerous threat right out of the gate.