Rumors surrounding the New York Yankees ahead of the MLB trade deadline indicate that the team intends to be aggressive buyers this summer. The Yankees are already one of the finest teams in baseball, but a bombshell trade involving one of their top prospects might propel them to the top.
In July, New York’s key trade targets will be relievers and corner infielders. The Yankees want to bolster their bullpen by pursuing relief pitchers with strong strikeout rates and excellent swing-and-miss ability. There is also interest in acquiring a first or third baseman, giving the organization more choices for replacing Anthony Rizzo.
According to Joel Sherman of the New York Post, the Yankees are unwilling to sell Dominguez this summer, even if it would help them acquire an impact player. Instead, New York hopes Dominguez is ready to start on Opening Day next season.
“Two evaluators agreed that the Yankees’ most protected prospects were Dominguez and Jones, with last year’s first-round choice, shortstop George Lombard — who is 19 and playing extremely young in Low-A — just below them. The rest of the system was regarded as more accessible in deals.”
Dominguez is set to miss the most of the 2024 season. He was most recently placed on the injured list for an oblique issue, with Yankees manager Aaron Boone stating on July 10 that Dominguez “still has a ways to go” before he can return.
The 21-year-old outfielder made his MLB debut in 2023, hitting.258/.303/.677. Dominguez hit four home runs in 40 plate appearances for the Yankees, despite striking out in 24.2% of them and having a below-average OBP.
With Dominguez remaining in New York, he is likely to begin the 2025 season in Triple-A. If he proves he can handle pitching at the level and remains healthy, he might be called up in early May 2025.
Regarding the 2024 MLB trade deadline, a handful of Yankees top prospects are thought to be available. While maintaining Jones and Dominguez essentially eliminates New York’s chances of acquiring All-Star closer Mason Miller, the Yankees still have several appealing trade possibilities to pursue.
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