Touted as the New York Yankees’ best prospect in years, young outfielder Jasson Domínguez has finally made it to the major leagues. Of course, Domínguez has had major expectations on his back since the Yankees signed him at age 16, and it’s unrealistic to believe that he’ll live up to them right away. Of course, he hasn’t so far, but the 22-year-old has still shown promise of at least being a viable starter for New York.

Jasson Domínguez Becoming Award Dark Horse in “Rookie” Season

Good, Not Great

Most concerning for Domínguez entering MLB was his defensive skills (or lack thereof). Having played center field for the majority of his minor league career, the Yankees decided to slot him in left field this past spring training, which has unfortunately put Domínguez’s unfamiliarity to the position on full display. Though he has only two errors this season, his fielding run value sits at -9, which is close to the worst out of all major league outfielders.

However, his skills at the plate have given the Yankees much more reason for positivity. Across 103 games, Domínguez is slashing .257/.331/.387 with nine homers, 40 RBI, 51 runs, and even tacking on 20 stolen bases (2nd most among MLB rookies behind Chandler Simpson). He has also shown very advanced plate discipline, especially for a rookie, walking 9.7% of the time. Plus, factoring in how he’s much better hitting from the left side (116 OPS+ against RHP), “The Martian” looks a lot more otherworldly.

An absolute LASER off the bat of Jasson Domínguez 💪 pic.twitter.com/IcyeVh0TDG

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Case for ROY

As of now, there is virtually no chance of Domínguez catching up to the Athletics’ first baseman Nick Kurtz, who holds an OPS north of 1.000 and 25 homers. But thanks to Domínguez’s recent success, he is at least somewhere in the conversation. In New York’s weekend series against the Cardinals in St. Louis, Domínguez registered five hits and drove in three runs, breaking a seven-game hitless streak. It could be a sign of better things to come for the rookie, who has steadily improved both offensively and defensively as the season has gone on.

Again, he’d have to go on a crazy hot streak to give himself a real chance at becoming the second straight Yankee to take home the award, but it’s not totally out of the question, with him ranking fourth in both hits and homers out of qualified rookies. If there’s anything that’s holding him back, it’s his defense and certainly not his offensive abilities.

Cautious Optimism

Though the stats don’t look very exciting, the Yankees can’t be too upset with how Jasson Domínguez has performed in his rookie season. Considering his age, there are lots of reasons to believe that he can become yet another star in New York’s outfield. Plate discipline and bat speed are both essential assets, and he has already shown skills in both. Although his fielding has been a cause for concern, it’s important to consider that he’s still learning how to navigate a new position at the pro level. He also has great arm strength and speed, so if he can improve on his initial reads, he should become at least an average-level fielder. Of course, it’s still too early to tell how “The Martian” will pan out, but as of right now, the Yankees have good reason to be cautiously optimistic.

Main Photo Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images