Yankees 23-Year-Old Slugger Faces Uphill Battle for Roster Spot

Jasson Domínguez could start the season in the minors despite a solid year in 2025.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The New York Yankees are facing a decision on one of their top young players, Jasson Domínguez, as they head into spring training. With the team bringing back Cody Bellinger and likely rolling out an outfield of Bellinger, Aaron Judge, and Trent Grisham, the 23-year-old Domínguez is facing an uphill battle to make the major league roster.

Why it matters

Domínguez is considered one of the Yankees' top prospects, but the team's crowded outfield situation could force them to send him to the minors to get more regular playing time, which could be better for his long-term development.

The details

Yankees GM Brian Cashman acknowledged that if the team's outfield situation stays the same, it may be in Domínguez's best interest to get everyday reps in the minors rather than a bench role in the majors. Cashman praised Domínguez's talent and athleticism, noting he could still be a valuable pinch-runner and late-game option off the bench.

  • Domínguez slashed .257/.331/.388 with 10 home runs and 47 RBIs in 123 games last season.

The players

Jasson Domínguez

A 23-year-old outfielder in the New York Yankees organization who is considered one of the team's top prospects.

Cody Bellinger

An outfielder who the Yankees re-signed this offseason, solidifying their starting outfield.

Aaron Judge

The Yankees' star outfielder who is expected to be part of the team's starting outfield in 2026.

Trent Grisham

An outfielder who the Yankees acquired and is expected to be part of their starting outfield in 2026.

Brian Cashman

The general manager of the New York Yankees.

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What they’re saying

“If everything stays the same, we'll be forced to determine what's our best course of action to help this team be impactful. I would concede it's in his best interest to be getting everyday reps.”

— Brian Cashman, General Manager, New York Yankees (New York Post)

“Domínguez is an extremely talented player. He's one of our best runners. So having him as a choice for our manager to use coming off the bench at times as a pinch-runner to steal a bag or first to third, second to home, what have you, definitely improves our chances of success because of his pure athleticism.”

— Brian Cashman, General Manager, New York Yankees (New York Post)

What’s next

The Yankees will continue to evaluate Domínguez's role during spring training, with a decision likely coming closer to the end of camp.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the difficult roster decisions teams sometimes face with their top prospects, having to weigh playing time and development against the immediate needs of the major league club. The Yankees will have to carefully consider Domínguez's long-term future as they finalize their 2026 roster.