As the New York Yankees gear up for the 2025 MLB season, a significant concern has emerged regarding the designated hitter (DH) position. Giancarlo Stanton, the team’s primary DH, is grappling with chronic tendinitis in both elbows, casting doubt on his availability for Opening Day. In response, manager Aaron Boone has proposed Dominic Smith as a potential alternative—a suggestion that has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.
Stanton’s health woes forcing Yankees’ hands
Giancarlo Stanton’s tenure with the Yankees has been marred by injuries, limiting his on-field contributions. The latest setback involves persistent tendinitis in both elbows, an issue that plagued him throughout the previous season and into the offseason. This condition has rendered his status for the season opener uncertain, prompting the organization to explore contingency plans.
Stanton’s offensive prowess is undeniable; in the 2024 season, he recorded 27 home runs and 72 RBIs over 114 games. His performance was particularly noteworthy during the postseason, where he contributed seven homers and 16 RBIs, playing a pivotal role in the Yankees’ journey to the World Series. Despite these achievements, his recurring health issues necessitate a reliable backup for the DH role.
Dominic Smith: A questionable alternative
In light of Stanton’s uncertain availability, Aaron Boone has identified Dominic Smith as a potential candidate for the DH position. Boone expressed optimism about Smith’s capabilities, stating, “The guy’s been a really good hitter throughout his career, a pro hitter.” He also mentioned the possibility of utilizing Smith in the outfield, indicating a desire to assess his versatility.
However, Smith’s recent performance metrics suggest that this choice may be contentious. Over the past four seasons, Smith has struggled to maintain consistency at the plate, resulting in below-average statistics. In the 2024 season, he split his time between the Boston Red Sox and the Cincinnati Reds, participating in 93 games and posting a .233 batting average, a .313 on-base percentage, and a .378 slugging percentage, accompanied by six home runs. These figures culminate in a Weighted Runs Created Plus (wRC+) of 93, indicating slightly below-average offensive production.
For a team with championship aspirations, relying on a player with such statistics to fill the DH role could be seen as a precarious strategy. The DH position is traditionally occupied by a formidable hitter capable of delivering consistent power and run production—qualities that Smith has not demonstrated in recent seasons.
Alternative solutions for Yankees
Given the uncertainties surrounding both Stanton’s health and Smith’s effectiveness, the Yankees may need to consider other options to fortify their lineup. One internal candidate is Ben Rice, a left-handed hitter who serves as a backup catcher and first baseman. Rice’s swing is well-suited to capitalize on Yankee Stadium’s short right-field porch, potentially offering the power and consistency desired in a DH.
Even the Yankees can rest Aaron Judge from outfield duty and assign him the DH role.
Externally, the free-agent market presents seasoned veterans such as Justin Turner and J.D. Martinez. Both players have established track records of offensive excellence and could provide the stability and production the Yankees seek. While signing a free agent entails financial considerations, the investment could be justified by the immediate impact on the team’s offensive capabilities.
Strategic implications
The decision regarding the DH position carries broader strategic implications for the Yankees’ 2025 campaign. With the departure of Juan Soto to the New York Mets, the team’s offensive lineup has undergone significant changes. New acquisitions Cody Bellinger and Paul Goldschmidt are expected to bolster the batting order, but the uncertainty at the DH spot could create a vulnerability that opposing teams might exploit.
Moreover, the Yankees’ roster composition leans heavily on left-handed hitters. Incorporating a reliable right-handed bat in the DH position would provide a more balanced lineup, enhancing the team’s adaptability against diverse pitching matchups.
As the Yankees approach the 2025 season, addressing the DH dilemma is imperative for sustaining their competitive edge. While Aaron Boone’s consideration of Dominic Smith reflects a willingness to explore internal options, the data suggests that alternative solutions may offer a higher probability of success. Whether by promoting talent from within the organization or acquiring a proven hitter through free agency, the Yankees must make a decisive move to ensure the DH position contributes effectively to the team’s overarching goal: securing a World Series title.
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