Amidst evolving lineup dynamics, the New York Yankees are studded with promising talents, yet a question mark persists over their key positions. MLB analysts have made some intriguing trade suggestions including one that involves Jasson Dominguez, placed highest in the Yankees’ prospects list. The Yankees’ off-season can be considered largely successful despite their failure to secure Juan Soto from the New York Mets. Their silver lining lies in the significant deals they have finalized subsequently, contributing positively to their overall team development.
The Yankees achieved a commendable feat by setting a record contract for Max Fried, a southpaw with remarkable credentials. They also acquired Devin Williams, an impressive closing pitcher further strengthening their bullpen. A considerable chunk of their success lies in the acquisition of former National League MVPs, Cody Bellinger and Paul Goldschmidt. That said, Brian Cashman, the General Manager, is restless in his pursuit to further enhance the team’s performance during the off-season.
In their quest for improvement, the Yankees have displayed interest in fortifying the crucial third base position. Speculations about their involvement in trade dialogue for Nolan Arenado confirm this very intention. Additionally, they are simultaneously required to devise a strategy for left field, a task that’s yet to be addressed effectively.
Earlier this week, a well-known MLB analyst put forward a thought-provoking proposition focusing on their quandary about left field. He suggested the possibility of trading Jasson Dominguez, who holds a seasonal stat-sheet with a .207 AVG, .310 OBP, .437 SLG, .747 OPS, 6 home runs, 11 runs batted in, and 14 runs at the MLB level.
The analyst proposed swapping him with Steven Kwan, with the notion that Kwan’s exceptional defense and ability to be a formidable leadoff player could be the answer to compliment the Yankees’ existing lineup. Steven Kwan impressed the baseball world in 2024 with a .292 AVG, .368 OBP, .425 SLG, .793 OPS, 14 home runs, 44 runs batted in, 83 runs along with 12 stolen bases.
The proposal regarding Kwan certainly has its merits. A notable holder of a triplet of Gold Glove awards, Kwan has proven his invaluable defensive skills on the field. In addition to his acclaimed defense, his All-Star induction in 2024 underscores the remarkable potential he holds. At the age of 27, he is under contractual control with his current team for at least three more seasons.
In the perspective of the New York Yankees, a player like Kwan, a tested and proven entity, would offer a substantial upgrade in the left field while holding the potential to be an incredible addition to the 2025 lead-off. However, Jasson Dominguez holds a special place among the Yankees’ squad and the team has high expectations of their number one farm system player.
Dominguez’s performance at the major league level validates the potential he holds. Despite numerous injury setbacks and a crowded roster which failed to promote him to more big league games last season, Dominguez’s value remains immense. Preliminary plans for the upcoming season envision him as the Yankees’ starting left fielder.
Bearing in mind Steven Kwan’s tested and proven skills, the proposition to trade Dominguez is an enticing one. Although Dominguez offers the promise of becoming a regular All-Star player, Kwan is already there. Having someone like Kwan on board could provide immediate results for a team such as the Yankees who are aiming high this season.