The New York Yankees’ 7-3 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers on Sunday night came at a cost, as rising star Jasson Domínguez left the game with a left thumb injury. Domínguez appeared to hurt himself during a headfirst slide into second base in the fifth inning, jamming his fingers into the bag. Though he initially stayed in the game and played defense in the next inning, he was replaced by a pinch-hitter in the sixth.
The injury is being described as a left thumb contusion, but the Yankees are expected to evaluate Domínguez further on Monday in New York. Manager Aaron Boone and the medical staff expressed concern after the game, given the initial pain Domínguez showed and the fact that he did not use his protected hand during the slide. While the injury is not yet confirmed to be serious, the Yankees are bracing for the possibility that Domínguez could miss some time.
This setback comes at an inopportune moment for both Domínguez and the Yankees. The 21-year-old outfielder had only recently returned to the majors and was showing signs of becoming a key contributor. His speed, defense, and emerging bat were adding energy to a Yankees team already contending with several injuries across the roster. Losing him would be a blow to the team’s outfield depth and its lineup flexibility.
The Yankees are already without several key players. Oswaldo Cabrera and Jazz Chisholm remain sidelined, ace pitcher Gerrit Cole is out for the season, and Luis Gil has yet to make an appearance in 2025. DJ LeMahieu only recently returned, and now the team must monitor the health of both Domínguez and closer Luke Weaver, who was scratched from pitching the ninth inning on Sunday due to hamstring tightness.
Fortunately, the Yankees do have some outfield reinforcements. Veteran Cody Bellinger has been swinging the bat well of late, and Trent Grisham continues to play strong defense and contribute timely hits. However, Domínguez’s injury threatens to disrupt the momentum the Yankees have been building over the past month, especially after their eight-series win streak ended against the Dodgers.
The Yankees will have Monday off before opening a three-game home series against the Cleveland Guardians on Tuesday. Domínguez’s status will be closely monitored, with fans and team officials hoping for good news. As injuries continue to test the Yankees’ depth, the performance of younger players and recent signings will be critical in maintaining their position atop the American League standings.
