A pivotal at-bat in the New York Yankees' victory over the Detroit Tigers on Wednesday underscored the talent and resilience the team believes Jasson Domínguez possesses. With the game tied in the sixth inning against Tigers ace Tarik Skubal, Domínguez, who had struck out in his first two plate appearances, worked a full count before launching a two-run home run.
This crucial hit, Domínguez’s first of the year from the right side of the plate, proved to be the difference-maker in the game. The 23-year-old outfielder acknowledged the challenge of facing Skubal but emphasized his focus on staying in the game and contributing to the team's success. "By the third at-bat, I had a better clue about it," Domínguez said. "I think it’s just mental and trying to stay in the game. He got me the first two, but there’s still more game to play, there’s still more at-bats coming."
Domínguez's performance is particularly significant as the Yankees navigate a period of injuries to key players like Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton, and Trent Grisham. His ability to step up and impact games is seen as vital for the club's performance throughout the season.
Manaager Aaron Boone praised Domínguez's ability to persevere against a formidable pitcher. "He’s a talented hitter," Boone stated. "It’s good to see a young player like that going up against a really tough matchup and it’s just why you got to keep at it. You’re going to get had sometimes by a good pitcher in certain at-bats. It didn’t hold him down and obviously that swing was the difference."
Improvement from the Right Side
The home run coming from the right side of the plate was especially noteworthy, given that it has historically been Domínguez's weaker side. Last season, he hit .204 with a .569 OPS from the right, compared to .274 with a .768 OPS as a lefty. This year, however, he has simplified his approach from the right side, entering Thursday batting .321 with a .893 OPS in 29 plate appearances from that side. "In the past, I used to have a big leg kick and all that," Domínguez explained. "Right now I’m just trying to be more simple and take good at-bats."
Boone attributes Domínguez's developing right-handed prowess to experience, which he has gained more recently after missing significant time due to injuries earlier in his career. With increased playing time due to current roster situations, Domínguez is getting more opportunities to refine his skills.
Despite these positive developments, Domínguez's game is still a work in progress, particularly in right field. He has started nine consecutive games at the position, and his defensive capabilities are still being developed, as evidenced by a fielding error on Wednesday. However, the Yankees remain optimistic about his potential. "Hopefully with more and more experience," Boone said, "he continues to get better and better and becomes the player out there we think he can be."