Jasson Dominguez faces uncertain Opening Day fate as Yankees weigh tough decision

In an odd turn of events, Jasson Dominguez’s Opening Day outlook suddenly feels uncertain. Once considered a near-lock to claim a full-time position, the 23-year-old outfielder now faces the possibility of opening the season in Triple-A. As the Yankees are sorting through a crowded outfield and weighing in roster flexibility, Dominguez finds himself in the middle of one of the most difficult decisions being made in the Yankees camp. The talent is unquestionable. The opportunity, however, may not be there, at least not right away.According to projections by The Athletics' Brendan Kuty and Chris Kirschner, Dominguez could open the year in Triple-A if the Yankees are healthy. The logic is based less on performance and more on roster building. The Yankees have been primarily trusting Dominguez in left field, which limits his flexibility as a reserve option. With Aaron Judge, Cody Bellinger, and Trent Grisham in position to play regular outfield roles, the club might want to include a more versatile player, such as Oswaldo Cabrera, as a fourth outfielder.Dominguez played 123 games last season and hit .257 with 10 home runs and 47 RBIs. While these numbers were solid, they did not quite make him indispensable. Analysts also note his continued development against left-handed pitching as an area in which he still needs development. The situation does not indicate a lack of belief. Instead, it highlights how roster math has the ability to squeeze even high upside prospects when depth charts tighten.The New York Yankees general manager, Brian Cashman, has made it clear that the organization is still considering Dominguez for an everyday player. Cashman admitted that regular at-bats may be the best approach for Dominguez, even if it means that he begins the season at Triple-A. Spring training performance will play a role, but the Yankees also know that injuries or changing needs can lead to a quick change in the picture. Cashman stressed the point of flexibility and specified that no decision is set in stone until camp is over.“I would concede it’s in his best interest to be getting everyday reps,” Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said. “We’ll just have to wait and see how the spring shakes out, who’s standing, and then we’ll make the appropriate decisions when we have our meetings close to the end of camp. … There’s flexibility in the roster with a lot of players that we can do a lot of different things with. Whether they’re going north with us or going to Triple A.”For Dominguez, the focus remains constant. Known to be mature since he was signed as an international prospect, he has also had great off-field stability. Now, the Yankees open their season on March 25 against the San Francisco Giants. Whether Dominguez breaks camp with the big club or heads to Triple-A, the organization still regards him as a part of its long-term core. The only question is timing.