Bellinger’s Consistent Performance in Spring Training
Cody Bellinger continued his impressive spring training performance on Sunday during the Yankees’ third game, a 4-0 loss to the Detroit Tigers. After a strong 1-for-2 debut in Friday’s 4-0 win over the Tampa Bay Rays, Bellinger showed no signs of slowing down. He singled to right field with two outs in the first inning, demonstrating his ability to make solid contact early in the game. While he did fly out to right field to end the third inning, Bellinger’s bat is a promising sign for the Yankees. Manager Aaron Boone opted to use Bellinger in center field, a position where his defensive skills shine, and replaced him with Alexander Vargas before the sixth inning. Boone’s decision reflects his trust in Bellinger’s versatility and reliability, even in the early stages of spring training.
Chisholm Jr.’s Rebound in the Lineup
Jazz Chisholm Jr. also made his mark in Sunday’s game, rebounding from his 0-for-2 start to the 2025 season. Chisholm, who led off and started at second base, followed an early lineout to center field with a third-inning single on a line drive to right field. This hit showcased his ability to come through under pressure and adjust his approach at the plate. Chisholm’s role as a leadoff hitter and his defensive position at second base highlight the Yankees’ confidence in his speed and hitting capabilities. Andrew Velazquez took over for Chisholm in the sixth inning, allowing him to get a breather while maintaining solid defensive play on the field.
Dominguez’s Struggles Defensively
Jasson Dominguez, batting cleanup behind Bellinger, had a challenging afternoon in the batter’s box and on the field. The 22-year-old finished 0-for-2, with an inning-ending flyout to center field in the first and a groundout to shortstop to start the fourth inning. More notably, Dominguez struggled defensively in left field. Losing a fly ball in the sun with one out and two on in the third inning, the ball fell to his left. Despite his inability to track the ball, Dominguez managed to pick it up at the warning track and quickly throw it to shortstop Anthony Volpe, who relayed it to catcher Alex Jackson, resulting in the prevention of a run by catching Jahmai Jones at home plate. This play, though initially a mistake, demonstrated Dominguez’s quick thinking and recovery skills, which are crucial for a young player still finding his footing.
Manager Boone’s Perspective on Dominguez
During an interview with the YES Network in the top of the fourth inning, Manager Aaron Boone addressed Dominguez’s defensive issues. "Belli could play anywhere any day, but he’s just so good in the middle of the diamond that I want to try and use that," Boone said, referring to Cody Bellinger. "And then because [Trent Grisham] then factors in. So, on the days Grish is playing, I can move him to center and then Belli plays the open position. I don’t want to necessarily get in the habit of moving Dominguez back and forth—so, if Grish is playing, then I bump Dominguez over to left. I want to exhaust the workload in left field right now for Jasson." Boone’s comments underscore the Yankees’ strategy to maximize the strengths of their players, particularly Bellinger, while giving Dominguez the necessary time to acclimate to left field. The young prospect’s defensive struggles are seen as part of the learning process, especially in spring training where conditions like the Florida sun can be challenging for even experienced players.
Dominguez’s Adaptability and Experience
Boone acknowledged the tough conditions in Florida, noting, "We’ve seen our first two games—not us, but the other two teams have misplayed a sun ball. It’s going to happen. I feel like there’s no better place to kind of cut your teeth in positions for outfielders as there is in spring training." He emphasized Dominguez’s overall good work and adaptability, stating, "His work’s been really good. He’s moving there really well. He’s handling the different balls off the bat—the slice, different spins off the ball—really well." The manager’s faith in Dominguez’s ability to learn and improve is evident, and he recognizes that the young player’s journey is still in its early stages. Dominguez, despite his injuries and limited experience, has shown flashes of the athleticism and potential that made him a top prospect, and the Yankees are committed to nurturing his development in left field.
Outlook for the Yankees Outfield
As the Yankees prepare for the regular season, the outfield dynamics are a key focus. With Cody Bellinger likely to man center field and Aaron Judge continuing in right, Jasson Dominguez is set to fill the left field spot. Boone highlighted the unique challenges of playing in the corners at Yankee Stadium, saying, "We say, a lot, ‘in Yankee Stadium.’ In Yankee Stadium requires a better athlete with more speed because there’s more ground to cover. The position doesn’t necessarily change with the reads off the bat and everything like that. He has the athleticism to do it. It’s just going to be getting used to being in the corner." Despite his struggles, Dominguez’s talent and potential are undeniable. As a young player, he is expected to grow and refine his skills, and the Yankees are providing him with the support and experience he needs to become a reliable corner outfielder. Spring training is a crucial period for Dominguez to build his confidence and demonstrate his readiness for the regular season.
