Yankees eye Jasson Dominguez over Alex Verdugo for ALDS; Marcus Stroman's postseason status in doubt

The New York Yankees have booked their spot in the ALDS but will first need to solve a conundrum in the outfield before they begin the series later this week. The Yankees will start with Aaron Judge at center and Juan Soto on the right flank. However, the left field position is up for grabs, even though it seems Jasson Dominguez will eventually get the nod over Alex Verdugo.

Alex Verdugo batted .233/.291/.356 with an OPS+ of 83 in 2024, the worst output over a full season during his eight-year career. Yet, the Yankees were reluctant at first to call up Jasson Dominguez, even though they eventually heeded the fans clamoring for his inclusion.

Despite carrying high expectations, the top-rated Yankees prospect hasn't quite lived up to the billing thus far. Dominguez has only batted .179/.313/.304 with two home runs and four RBIs in 18 games this season and has also committed a few blunders with the glove.

Manager Aaron Boone shared his perspective on the 21-year-old rookie while speaking with Gary Phillips of the New York Daily News.

"Obviously had some hiccups in the outfield," Boone said. "He didn't light up the stat line from an offensive standpoint but I felt like he was having quality at-bats still. I know what he's capable of – on both sides of the ball, for that matter – and the speed component he brings to the table. I feel like he's ready to go.

"Whatever way we go, he's going to play a big part," Boone added.

Going by the words of Boone, it seems Jasson Dominguez will likely be preferred over Alex Verdugo to start at left field.

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Marcus Stroman may not be part of Yankees postseason

Marcus Stroman joined on a two-year $37 million deal in the offseason. (Photo Credit: IMAGN)

The New York Yankees had the playoffs in mind when they signed Marcus Stroman to a two-year, $37 million deal. However, as things stand, the 33-year-old starting pitcher is in danger of not being included in the roster for the upcoming ALDS.

Marcus Stroman enjoyed a solid start to life at the Bronx, but his performances declined steadily in the last two months of the regular season. The right-hander only completed 15.1 innings from four starts in September, with an 8.80 ERA. Opposing hitters batted .419/.442/.500 against him, with an OPS of .942, despite allowing only one home run.

Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodon will undoubtedly be the starting pitchers for the Yankees in the first two games of the ALDS. However, Nestor Cortes Jr. is on the IL with a flexor strain, but the rookie Luis Gil is above Marcus Stroman in the pecking order to take the third position in the starting rotation.