"It's great news for a Yankees lineup that benefited greatly from Bellinger's production (125 wRC+, 4.9 fWAR) in 2025, but that news isn't quite as exciting for the Yankees' young outfielders. With Trent Grisham (129 wRC+, 3.2 fWAR) back in town via the qualifying offer, Bellinger's return means it will be tough for former top prospect Jasson Dominguez and current top prospect Spencer Jones to push their way into the lineup."
"That's an incomplete look at the situation, however. Slugging DH Giancarlo Stanton missed the first half of the season last year due to an injury impacting both of his elbows, which created ample playing time in the first half of the season for Dominguez. Jones, meanwhile, opened the year at Double-A and wasn't realistically on the big league radar until near the end of 2025."
"While that's not entirely a bad problem to have, it can be challenging for a young player to develop and succeed at the big league level without consistent playing time. That could spell trouble for Dominguez, whose 2025 campaign saw him post a 103 wRC+ with ten homers, 23 steals, and 0.6 fWAR due to lackluster defense in the outfield. That's decent enough production for a rookie, but not exactly the sort of five-tool superstar he was once lauded as."
The Yankees re-signed Cody Bellinger to a five-year contract, preserving a potent offensive presence after his 2025 season (125 wRC+, 4.9 fWAR). Trent Grisham also returned via a qualifying offer, solidifying outfield depth and constraining opportunities for prospects Jasson Dominguez and Spencer Jones. Giancarlo Stanton missed the first half of 2025 with elbow injuries, which temporarily opened playing time that aided Dominguez's rookie exposure. Jones began 2025 in Double-A and only approached the majors late in the year. Limited, inconsistent big-league reps and defensive shortcomings could hinder Dominguez's development toward a five-tool ceiling.
Read at MLB Trade Rumors
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