Over the past year, the New York Yankees have seen their once-promising outfield prospects face significant challenges, primarily due to injuries that have not only delayed their progress but also affected their market value. Among these, Everson Pereira and Jasson Dominguez have experienced setbacks that illustrate the precarious nature of baseball careers.
Everson Pereira’s Stumbling Blocks
Everson Pereira, who made his MLB debut last season, had a tough start, hitting only .151 with a .233 on-base percentage over 27 games. This debut highlighted several areas needing improvement, particularly his high strikeout rates due to his aggressive hitting approach. Despite these challenges, Pereira showed some potential in Triple-A this year with a .265 average and 10 home runs over 40 games. However, his progress was abruptly halted by an elbow injury requiring Tommy John surgery, sidelining him until 2025 and significantly impacting his immediate value to the team.
Given that Pereira still has nearly six years of arbitration eligibility and an option remaining, the Yankees might consider trading him in the future. However, with the current need to strengthen their infield, losing Pereira’s potential contribution for the next season is a blow to their depth.
Jasson Dominguez’s Value to the Yankees This Season
In contrast, Jasson Dominguez has been making waves in the minor leagues following his recovery from Tommy John surgery. Since being promoted to Triple-A Scranton, Dominguez has been outstanding, batting .389 with two home runs in just nine games. His performance has been a bright spot, underscoring his readiness for the majors and his potential to impact the Yankees positively.
Despite his success, Dominguez recently suffered a setback with a likely oblique injury during a check-swing, which has once again raised concerns about his durability. Currently on the 7-day minor league injury list, his development is crucial, and the Yankees are likely to keep him in Triple-A to continue his growth rather than rush his introduction to the major leagues.
- Two top Yankees brass viewed as leading candidates to succeed GM Brian Cashman in New York
- The Yankees have no choice but to survive with 2 ice-cold infielders
- The Yankees have 4 big-time bats they could acquire at the deadline to reinforce first base
The Yankees’ outfield has been solid this season with contributions from Juan Soto and Alex Verdugo, reducing the immediate need to rush Dominguez into the lineup. However, Dominguez’s potential as a late-season call-up could provide the Yankees with additional depth during the postseason, provided he can stay healthy and regain his form.