Yankees’ Jasson Dominguez Struggling with Left Field Transition in Spring Training
Every time a ball heads toward Jasson Dominguez in left field, Yankees fans are holding their breath.
The Yankees’ top prospect is expected to take over as the starting left fielder with Alex Verdugo still available on the free agent market. But through the first week of spring training, Dominguez hasn’t done much to ease concerns about his defensive abilities.
Dominguez, 22, is naturally a center fielder. He’s been working in left following the acquisition of former MVP Cody Bellinger, who’s slated for everyday duties in center field. The position change hasn’t been smooth sailing so far.
When called up from Triple-A last September, Dominguez struggled defensively in left field. It was a small sample size, so many fans were willing to give him the benefit of the doubt. But the early returns this spring have only amplified those concerns.
Left field at Yankee Stadium is notoriously difficult to play. The position requires good reads, proper routes, and solid fundamentals—areas where Dominguez has shown notable weaknesses.
Another tough play for Jasson Dominguez in left field: pic.twitter.com/y4Z011aa9h
— Bryan Hoch (@BryanHoch) February 27, 2025
Some fans and analysts are already suggesting the Yankees should reconsider their outfield alignment. The defensive struggles have been pronounced enough that a growing contingent believes Dominguez should return to center field with Bellinger shifting to left.
I’m very scared that it’s gonna become obvious that Jasson Dominguez should be in CF over LF, but Boone will dig his heels in and refuse to change course. I get why he prefers otherwise, but the best defensive alignment is Jasson CF/Belli LF. Just do it. pic.twitter.com/kZpwp7yhH5
— Max Mannis (@MaxMannis) February 27, 2025
Yankees fans aren’t the only ones taking notice. Rival fans and media members are having a field day with Dominguez’s defensive miscues.
I don’t care about spring training statistics, but the one thing we actually can take from spring training performances thus far is that Jasson Dominguez is a horrendous defender. Maybe the worst of all-time.
— Jared Carrabis (@Jared_Carrabis) February 27, 2025
What’s particularly concerning are the fundamental issues with Dominguez’s defensive approach. His route-running has been erratic, and his decision-making on balls hit his way has looked hesitant at best.
I am genuinely horrified by some of the routes Jasson Dominguez has taken.
Opening day is a month away – the Yankees need to get him as many reps as possible.
— Derek Levandowski (@PinstripeDerek) February 27, 2025
Some Yankees fans are already suggesting drastic measures to address the situation.
Jasson Dominguez shouldn’t play another spring training game….
For the next month the Yankees should stick him in LF and hire amateurs to hit 500 balls at him every day
This is clearly what needs to be done
— fan of the Yankees (@realboshek) February 28, 2025
The defensive struggles are especially concerning given Dominguez’s status as the organization’s top prospect. The Yankees have been high on “The Martian” for years, but his development hasn’t been as smooth as many had hoped.
It’s worth remembering that Dominguez is still just 22 years old with limited major league experience. There’s plenty of time for him to improve defensively, whether in left field or potentially back in his natural center field position.
The Yankees have about four weeks until Opening Day to figure out their best defensive alignment. That’s enough time for Dominguez to get comfortable in left field, but the clock is ticking. If these struggles continue, the team might need to reconsider their outfield configuration or explore other options before the regular season begins.
To those who this may concern
If Jasson Dominguez doesn’t pan out in left field… I’m putting 100% of the blame on Cashman (as per usual)
— fan of the Yankees (@realboshek) February 27, 2025
