Despite Trent Grisham’s recent struggles at the plate, New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone prioritizes him over top prospect Jasson Dominguez. With Dominguez’s development hanging in the balance, the choice to bench the young star has fueled questions about the team’s priorities.
New York Yankees Set on Benching Jasson Dominguez Despite Trent Grisham’s Cold Play
Grisham’s early 2025 season saw him get off to a pretty good start, hitting .294 with a 1.025 OPS and 12 home runs through 35 games. Since May 13, though, Grisham has slumped. He’s hitting .162 with one home run, six RBIs, and 10 runs scored in 24 games.
Trent Grisham has an OPS of .576 since May 13 but yet the #Yankees continue to give him regular ABs at the expense of Jasson Dominguez’s development.
The Grisham Heater was fun while it lasted but it’s over and it’s time to let Dominguez get his turn.
— Christian (@Christian_NYYST) June 11, 2025
His OPS has plummeted to .576, which is low compared to his previous statistic. Boone firmly believes Grisham is a consistent baseball player. “He’s still putting together good at-bats,” Boone said before a 9-6 win over the Boston Red Sox, noting Grisham’s 1-for-4 game. He had a walk as part of a five-run first inning against Boston.
Not everyone has as much trust in Grisham as Boone. NYYSportsTalk’s co-host called out Grisham’s lackluster performance, saying on a X post, “The Grisham Heater was fun while it lasted, but it’s over and it’s time to let Dominguez get his turn.”
Why Is Jasson Dominguez Kept on the Sidelines?
Once called the Yankees’ future outfield star, Dominguez has been relegated to the bench more frequently than expected. On Wednesday in Kansas City, he was absent from the lineup. Over the past few games for the Yankees, Boone opted for Grisham, Cody Bellinger, and Aaron Judge in the outfield.
Dominguez’s limited playing time has frustrated fans, who see the 22-year-old as a cornerstone of the Yankees’ future. His brief start earlier this season showed off his potential.
However, the Yankees’ cautious approach, which some believe is driven by a crowded outfield situation and veterans like Giancarlo Stanton still around. Stanton is nearing a return from a rehab assignment in Tampa, Florida. Those reasons might have kept Dominguez on the sidelines and in the dugout.
Dominguez, with his raw talent, could benefit from consistent at-bats. However, Boone’s loyalty to veterans suggests that he’s taking a conservative approach. As the season rolls on, the Yankees must decide whether to unleash their prospect or double down on Grisham’s potential rebound. The choice could shape the team’s postseason playoff hopes and Dominguez’s future.