Dominic Smith, a former New York Mets player, has rejoined the Yankees after opting out of his contract earlier this spring. Smith had a solid performance during spring training, hitting .297 with an .857 OPS in 13 games, which led him to believe he could secure a spot on the big league roster. However, with the Yankees already having a deep lineup of left-handed hitters, Smith was not added to their 40-man roster.
Initially, the Yankees had a small window to add Smith after his opt-out, but ultimately, the team chose not to pursue that option. This move allowed Smith to explore opportunities with other teams, but ultimately, he chose to return to the Yankees organization on a minor-league contract. Smith’s re-signing provides the Yankees with additional depth in their minor-league affiliate, Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Although Smith won’t start the season in the majors, he is in a favorable position should any injuries occur within the Yankees’ roster. With players like Cody Bellinger and Paul Goldschmidt, along with the team’s strong bench players, Smith could be called up to provide necessary depth, particularly in the outfield or at first base. His versatility and previous major-league experience make him a solid backup option for the team.
The move also provides Smith with another chance to prove his worth in the minors. His strong spring performance suggests he could be a valuable asset if called up to the big league roster. With the Yankees looking to keep their outfield and first base positions competitive, Smith could still see major-league action later in the season if the opportunity arises.
As the Yankees face the challenges of a long season, the addition of Smith back into the system ensures they are ready to adapt to any roster changes. Smith’s experience and offensive potential provide a valuable backup for the team, and his performance in Triple-A could determine when he earns another shot in the majors. The Yankees are hoping his experience will pay off in the coming months as they navigate their season.
