🚨As the New York Yankees approach Opening Day in just two weeks, manager Aaron Boone is still left pondering key roster decisions. With a lot of uncertainty surrounding the team’s bench and bullpen, one situation seems to be solidifying: Jasson Domínguez’s role for the start of the 2026 season. Here’s a closer look at the team’s questions and how Domínguez is adapting his game. 👇

Boone’s Uncertainty About the Yankees’ Final Roster Spots
With the season fast approaching, Aaron Boone is still uncertain about some of the Yankees’ roster spots. When asked about the bench, Boone admitted, “I don’t know how it’s going to shake out.” As the team gears up for Opening Day, questions remain about whether they will carry three catchers, who will fill out the bench, and which relievers will make the final cut.

The bullpen, in particular, has been a fluid situation, with Boone confirming that two spots remain up for grabs. He noted that some pitchers have had mixed results during spring training, leaving the Yankees’ staff in need of further evaluation. While Boone acknowledged that there are still a lot of moving parts, he emphasized that the competition for roster spots is far from settled.

The Catching Situation: Rice’s Transition to First Base
The Yankees are also grappling with their catching situation. Boone wasn’t sure whether Ben Rice would catch any games this spring, especially since the Yankees are focusing on him transitioning to first base. Rice has been taking reps as the everyday first baseman—a new role for him—and the team is prioritizing his development at the position. If Rice doesn’t catch in spring training, J.C. Escarra may serve as the backup to Austin Wells to start the regular season.

The Yankees’ Bench and Versatility
As for the rest of the bench, the Yankees are expected to carry first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, utilityman Amed Rosario, and veteran outfielder Randal Grichuk. While Grichuk seems like a lock, Boone also highlighted the versatility of players like Max Schuemann and veteran Paul DeJong. Rosario could play multiple infield positions, but he would be better suited at third or second base than at shortstop. Meanwhile, Ryan McMahon, who’s been shaky at shortstop during the spring, could still provide valuable depth at other positions.

The Bullpen’s Final Spots: Tough Competition
The competition for the bullpen spots is fierce. Boone called the battle “very fluid,” with some relievers showing potential and others struggling with consistency. Righty Jake Bird has impressed when he’s been in the strike zone, but Boone noted that his consistency remains a question mark. Lefty Brent Headrick has also caught Boone’s eye, and righty Kervin Castro has opened eyes with his performance this spring. With only two spots left, Boone is carefully monitoring the bullpen battle.

Jasson Domínguez’s Swing Change and Growth
One of the most intriguing stories this spring is Jasson Domínguez’s swing change. The 23-year-old outfielder, known for his switch-hitting abilities, has made adjustments to his right-handed swing, notably eliminating the leg kick he previously employed. This change comes after a disappointing 2025 season, where Domínguez struggled against left-handed pitching with a .569 OPS, which cost him a starting role.

In Tuesday’s game against the Philadelphia Phillies, Domínguez showed the results of his offseason work, crushing a solo home run off lefty Tanner Banks. Boone remains encouraged by Domínguez’s progress, noting that while he’s still a better hitter from the left side, there’s no reason to believe his right-handed swing won’t improve with continued experience. Boone praised Domínguez for his power and plate discipline from the right side, hinting that his ability to control the strike zone could lead to growth at the plate.

Luis Gil’s Fastball Hope
Right-hander Luis Gil is another player drawing attention this spring. After struggling with a right lat injury last season, Gil is showing signs of improvement. His fastball was clocked at 95.5 mph, topping out at 97.3 mph in his 3 1/3 innings on Tuesday. Boone was encouraged by Gil’s progress, noting that his fastball’s profile continues to improve. While Gil didn’t generate any swings and misses on his fastball during Tuesday’s outing, he did rack up four whiffs on his slider, which is a positive sign moving forward.

What’s Next for the Yankees?
With just two weeks remaining until Opening Day, the Yankees still have several questions to answer. Will Domínguez start the season in Triple-A, as expected? Who will fill out the bullpen and bench? And can Luis Gil take the next step in his development? As spring training winds down, it’s clear that competition for roster spots is intense, and the answers to these questions will shape the Yankees’ 2026 season.