Yankees have clear Jasson Dominguez plan when Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton return

Yankees fans might've yelled at the TV on Wednesday night when Jasson Dominguez booted a scorching line drive into right field that let the Tigers take extra bases. That eventually led to the game-tying run crossing the plate.

Not long after, they were yelling at the TV in celebration when Dominguez blasted the game-winning two-run homer off Tarik Skubal, making the most of his time in the starting lineup hitting from the right side of the plate.

The two things Dominguez needed to improve upon were his defense and right-handed hitting in order to receive more consistent playing time. The former still needs work (though he's managed to make some good plays), while the latter has been electric. He's hitting .321 with an .893 OPS against left-handed pitching.

He's only seen action in 19 games this year after starting 2026 in the minor leagues and then suffering a shoulder injury in early May, but it's quite possible the Yankees have seen all they need to. He's not a perfect player, but he's a piece they will need on the bench for the remainder of the season and heading into the playoffs.

When Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton return, there's a clear plan for Dominguez, who should still get plenty of reps on a loaded roster.

How Yankees should handle Jasson Dominguez when Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton return

Dominguez won't be an everyday player when the Yankees get fully healthy, but he'll be a regular. He'll be an integral bench piece. As we know, both Judge and Stanton will need days off upon their returns given the severity of their injuries. Stanton's now been out for two months and Judge is expected to be out for a similar timeframe. Both need to be preserved for October and definitely won't be playing every day the moment they're cleared.

Dominguez's versatility gives Aaron Boone plenty of options off the bench. As a switch hitter, the choices will be much simpler. He can start against righties if the matchup isn't great for Stanton. He can start against lefties whenever the moment feels right. He can start in the outfield whenever the Yankees have a pitcher on the mound that induces more fly balls than ground balls (or on Aaron Judge DH days). He can start at DH when Stanton needs a breather.

But the fact of the matter is that he's here for the long haul. He's got more experience than Spencer Jones. The effective switch hitting changes the game significantly. So does the defensive "versatility" — if we can call it that. Again, put him on the field in the right matchups and all will probably be fine.

Between his solid at-bats, improved (but not pristine) defense, and overall athleticism, the Yankees have an easy blueprint to continue giving him regular playing time when they are ready for the stretch run and postseason push. It could create uncomfortable conversations elsewhere, but Dominguez keeps responding to every moment of adversity, and that deserves to be rewarded.

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