Could the defensive struggles of Jasson Dominguez in New York Yankees spring training force open the door to a potential win-win trade with crosstown rivals the New York Mets?
The Yankees have huge expectations in 2025. After a run to the World Series in October, the edict from the top this season is to finish the story and bring the franchise a record-extending 28th World Series title. And in the offseason, the club made a slew of moves that have many MLB pundits believing this year’s team is even better.
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However, they still have some weaknesses. Third base is the most prominent position battle in spring training. But there are many eyes on top prospect Jasson Dominguez. “The Martian” is penciled as the team’s starting left fielder. Unfortunately, he has not looked as strong as many hoped over his first few spring training games.
Thursday brought another blunder in the outfield that has some around the team worried if he is ready to be an every day starter. This is on top of the fact that designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton is sidelined indefinitely with injured elbows. However, the Yankees’ current issues are a good reason for the team to seriously consider a trade with the Mets for an impact player that could play in left or serve as a short-term DH.
- Marcus Stroman stats (2024): 10-9 record. 4.31 ERA, 113 strikeouts, 154.2 innings pitched
Could Jasson Dominguez’s struggles force the New York Yankees to consider a bold trade with the New York Mets soon?
The New York Yankees are not alone in having some concerns at certain positions this spring. Crosstown rivals the New York Mets also have a problem in their starting rotation. Free agent addition Frankie Montas will be sidelined the next few months due to a lat injury and returning pitcher Sean Manaea also has an issue that could keep in on the injured list for the next month.
Well, the Yankees have a veteran pitcher they have been trying to move for months, Marcus Stroman. The former Met would certainly be a more than serviceable option to fill one of those holes in the Mets’ rotation to start the season. They also happen to have a veteran outfielder who can hit, that they have been wanting to trade in Starling Marte.
- Starling Marte stats (2024): 94 G, .269 AVG, .327 OBP, .388 SLG, .715 OPS, 7 HR, 40 RBI, 46 R
Marte could be a good failsafe for the Yankees in left if they continue to lose trust in Dominguez. Or be the team’s DH while they await Stanton’s uncertain return. Furthermore, Marte’s contract comes off the books after this season. And has proven he can play on New York’s big stage — when healthy.
The big question is would the Mets want Stroman back? While they have a new front office and manager, he may have rubbed some the wrong way during his three years in Queens when he skipped the pandemic-shortened season in 2020. Plus, he has a vesting option for $18.3 million in 2026 if he pitches over 140 innings.
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