Yankees manager Aaron Boone revealed on WFAN’s BT and Sal Show that the team is currently considering two dynamic options for their leadoff spot heading into the 2025 season: Jasson Dominguez and Jazz Chisholm. While both players bring unique skill sets to the table, neither is a traditional high-contact, high-on-base leadoff hitter, which could leave the door open for another addition before Opening Day.
Boone’s decision will likely come down to whether the Yankees value experience over upside. Chisholm has more major league reps at the top of a lineup, but Dominguez has the potential to develop into an elite on-base threat with pop.
Dominguez’s Upside Could Be Game-Changing
At just 21 years old, Dominguez is one of the Yankees’ most intriguing young hitters. His small MLB sample size—just 100 plate appearances—makes it difficult to gauge how ready he is for an everyday leadoff role. In those opportunities, he slashed .207/.310/.437 with six homers, 11 RBIs, six stolen bases, and a 109 wRC+.
That stat line hints at his potential but also shows he’s still a work in progress. The switch-hitter offers power and speed, two qualities that could make him an electric leadoff man if he refines his approach. His ability to adjust from both sides of the plate makes him a versatile fit against any starting pitcher. However, given his limited experience, the Yankees might prefer to ease him into such a key role.
Chisholm Brings Experience and Aggression
On the other hand, Chisholm already has experience leading off, including 238 at-bats in that spot for the Miami Marlins last season. During that stretch, he hit .244/.317/.408, flashing speed and occasional pop. While he isn’t the most conventional table-setter, his ability to swipe bases and create chaos at the top of the order makes him an attractive option.
That said, Chisholm’s skill set might be better suited for the heart of the lineup, where he can drive in runs rather than setting the stage for others. He’s aggressive on the bases and brings a level of energy that could be valuable anywhere in the order, but the Yankees may prefer a more disciplined hitter ahead of Aaron Judge.
Yankees Could Still Seek an External Solution
While Boone has put Dominguez and Chisholm in the conversation, the Yankees could still pursue another infielder who better fits the leadoff mold. Someone with elite on-base skills and contact ability would provide more stability in that role.
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For now, the Yankees have two exciting, albeit unconventional, choices. Whether they lean into Dominguez’s upside or Chisholm’s experience remains to be seen, but either way, the top of the lineup should have plenty of energy in 2025.