The New York Yankees face a critical season after losing Juan Soto to the crosstown Mets in a stunning free-agent departure. Soto’s decision to sign a record $765 million contract forced the Yankees to pivot quickly this offseason.
In response, the Bronx Bombers made several significant moves, acquiring left-handed starter Max Fried and former National League MVP Paul Goldschmidt, while also trading for elite closer Devin Williams and another former NL MVP in Cody Bellinger.
The infield remains in flux following second baseman Gleyber Torres’ departure to the Detroit Tigers. The Yankees could shift Jazz Chisholm Jr. back to his natural position at second base, where he excelled with the Miami Marlins, while installing either Oswaldo Cabrera, Oswald Peraza, or DJ LeMahieu at third base.
Related: MLB insider offers huge update on New York Yankees making rumored Nolan Arenado trade during spring training
WFAN radio personality says it’s time for Jasson Dominguez to live up to the hype
However, much of the Yankees’ 2025 hopes may rest on the shoulders of their 22-year-old phenom, Jasson Dominguez.
“The Martian” electrified Yankees fans in September 2023 by homering off future Hall of Famer Justin Verlander in his first major league at-bat. Dominguez went on to hit four home runs in eight games before requiring Tommy John surgery.
His return in 2024 was limited to just 18 games, where he hit two home runs with a .617 OPS and 77 OPS+ in 67 plate appearances.
WFAN radio personality Keith McPherson believes Dominguez is ready for an everyday role in the outfield, especially with Soto’s departure.
“He’s also going to be in the mix to lead off. He’s a switch hitter, but I think they prefer him on the left side,” McPherson told Sportsnaut’s Evan Groat. “I think he can do it, but I think with any rookie, there’s going to be a learning curve, there’s going to be some bumps in the road, some growing pains. I don’t expect him to be an All-Star this year, but I expect him to show that power, I expect him to show his athleticism – he’s built like a linebacker. I certainly think that he belongs.”
McPherson added that he wouldn’t be surprised if Dominguez takes over in center field, with Bellinger shifting to left.
OOPSY projects Dominguez to hit 21 home runs, knock in 68 runs, score 70 runs, and post a .740 OPS in 2025.
Related: 5 Huge New York Yankees questions heading into 2025 season, including how they fill the Juan Soto void
