NEW YORK — A few months ago, Jasson Dominguez’s future with the New York Yankees looked uncertain. Defensive problems and a crowded outfield cut into his playing time and raised questions about his role.
Now, with the Yankees at 86-67 and holding the top rank in American League Wild Card spot, the 22-year-old outfielder has emerged as a possible weapon for October. His impact, however, is coming through speed more than power.
Speed becomes Dominguez’s calling card
Dominguez has 23 stolen bases in 27 attempts. His sprint speed is 28.6 feet per second, the fastest on the roster and in the 83rd percentile of the league.
“We’ve got to get there first, but I hope so,” Yankees manager Aaron Boone said about Dominguez’s potential postseason role. “But I feel like we have a number of guys where we can play that game, and I love having that.”
He showed that impact in the Yankees’ 10-5 win over the Minnesota Twins on Sept. 17. He doubled, stole two bases, scored twice and was hit by a pitch. It was only his third start in 18 days after dental work for an infection.
His first steal came after an RBI double in the fourth inning, where he reached a sprint speed of 29.4 feet per second. Later, he stole second after being hit by a pitch, then moved to third on an error and scored.
“I feel like as the season’s unfolded, he’s gotten really good and really confident at trusting when we open him up that he can get bags,” Boone said. “His speed is so good, but I feel like he’s done a better job as the season’s gone along of just consistently getting some good breaks.”
From everyday starter to specialized role
Dominguez opened 2025 as the projected left fielder. But Trent Grisham’s breakout changed that plan.
“Going into the season, the plan was to give Dominguez a runway to deal with some growing pains, and every month, in theory, he’d settle in and establish himself as an everyday guy at this level,” according to Yankees GM Brian Cashman said. “But Grish was like, ‘Hey, don’t forget about me, because I can do some things.'”
Grisham’s strong season, along with Cody Bellinger’s steady defense in left, pushed Dominguez into a part-time role. His defense also played a part.
Dominguez has hit .257 with a .332 on-base percentage and .390 slugging percentage over 425 plate appearances. He has 10 home runs and 47 RBIs. But his minus-6 Defensive Runs Saved and minus-9 Outs Above Average lowered his value.
With Aaron Judge in right field, Giancarlo Stanton at designated hitter, Grisham in center and Bellinger in left, Dominguez had to wait for his opportunity.
Teammates see maturity
Even with fewer at-bats, Dominguez has gained respect in the clubhouse.
“It really is amazing,” Bellinger said. “Just his attitude. The way he carries himself. It really is special, especially for such a young kid. He’s a treat to have in the locker room. Great energy. Really, really good baseball player.”
Dominguez has stayed positive after mistakes. After being doubled off in a baserunning miscue as a pinch-runner, he focused on the team’s goals.
“Right now, we need to just win and get to the postseason,” Dominguez said. “I can’t be selfish about myself. I have to do what’s best for the team.”
He has also shown defensive progress. In a 5-3 win over Boston on Sept. 20, Dominguez threw out a runner at second.
“He did a good job squaring his body up and making sure he was accurate,” Boone said. “That was a big play.”
October role coming into focus
With less than two weeks left in the regular season, Dominguez could be a valuable October piece. He has posted a .770 OPS from the left side against right-handed pitching, giving Boone another lineup option.
But his biggest impact may be in late-game spots as a pinch-runner or defensive sub. The Yankees also have speed in Jose Caballero, Jazz Chisholm Jr., Anthony Volpe and Bellinger. That depth could give them an edge.
“He’s working hard behind the scenes to stay ready,” Boone said. “There are opportunities that are going to present themselves.”
The Yankees have not had this much speed depth in years. Dominguez’s ability to change games on the bases could prove vital in October.
“In the New York Yankees’ perfect world, Jasson Dominguez won’t find himself in any postseason starting lineup,” writes Brendan Kuty of The Athletic. “Instead, Aaron Judge, Cody Bellinger and Trent Grisham will handle everything in the outfield with Giancarlo Stanton potentially working into the mix. That world doesn’t account for the potential that Domínguez could carve out a niche as a pinch running threat.”
Finding his niche at the right time
Dominguez’s path has shifted from starter to role player. Once a concern in the field, he is now focused on helping the team in new ways.
Every extra base can swing a postseason series. His legs give the Yankees an option few opponents can match. Boone and Cashman have noted his willingness to adapt, which has raised his value late in the year.
Few clubs can bring a switch-hitting outfielder with power, speed and upside off the bench. The Yankees see him as an October X-factor, one who could help decide tight games.
Known as “The Martian” since his prospect days, Dominguez may now get his chance on the postseason stage. For a player once written off, it could be the defining moment of his young career.
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