The New York Yankees are navigating a series of injury concerns as they approach the final stretch of the season and look ahead to the playoffs. Despite sweeping the Oakland A’s and closing in on clinching the AL East, the team is faced with challenges due to the injuries of key players including DJ LeMahieu, Jasson Dominguez, and Lou Trivino.
DJ LeMahieu has been on the injured list for two weeks due to a hip issue. Manager Aaron Boone recently updated that LeMahieu has begun hitting off a tee and could be a potential candidate for the postseason roster. However, many question the value he could bring after a prolonged absence from the field. As the Yankees head into crucial games, relying on a player who hasn’t contributed significantly recently might not be the best strategy. Instead, the Yankees are showcasing younger talent such as Jon Berti, Oswaldo Cabrera, and Jasson Dominguez, who have displayed athleticism and versatility that could better serve the team in high-pressure situations.
Jasson Domínguez, ready for takeoff 🚀
— MLB (@MLB) September 22, 2024
The Martian ties it up for the @Yankees. pic.twitter.com/nSsYLrkjIr
Jasson Dominguez, the Yankees’ top prospect, has had an up-and-down tenure since his recall. While he has hit two homers in just 46 plate appearances and showed flashes of brilliance with a game-tying homer against Oakland, his defensive missteps have been concerning. Nevertheless, if he can continue to develop his skills and contribute offensively, he could be an invaluable asset in the playoffs.
RHP Lou Trivino has been shut down due to "shoulder stuff," Aaron Boone said.
— Bryan Hoch ⚾️ (@BryanHoch) September 22, 2024
Lou Trivino’s situation is more severe. Initially on track for a mid-to-late September return from Tommy John surgery, the pitcher has now been shut down due to shoulder issues. It has been confirmed he will not pitch again this season, an unfortunate setback for the Yankees as they seek veteran presence in their bullpen.
As the Yankees prepare for pivotal matchups against the Baltimore Orioles and Pittsburgh Pirates, the health and performance of these players will significantly impact their playoff strategy. The next week will be critical for showcasing their readiness as they aim to finalize their postseason roster.
In a thrilling finale at the Oakland Coliseum, Aaron Judge once again proved why he is the cornerstone of the New York Yankees. With his stunning performance in the Yankees’ 7-4 victory over the Athletics, Judge not only contributed to the team’s sweep but also brought the Yankees’ magic number to clinch the AL East down to just one.
Playing in what could be his last game at the Coliseum, Judge smashed his 55th home run of the season and added a double, further extending his major league lead in home runs. He went 2-for-3 with a pair of walks, showcasing his relentless drive as the Yankees continue to push for the division title. “Ending it with a sweep is my favorite thing,” Judge remarked postgame, reflecting on the Yankees’ 5-1 road trip.
The victory sets the stage for the Yankees as they head home to face the Baltimore Orioles in a crucial three-game series. With a six-game lead and only six games left in the season, the Yankees are poised to clinch the division if they secure just one win. Manager Aaron Boone noted the team’s focus as they approach the playoff push, and with Judge leading the charge, fans have plenty to be excited about as October looms.