Title: Jasson Dominguez Hits Home Run in MLB Debut Against Justin Verlander
By ESPN News Services
September 1, 2023
HOUSTON – In his first Major League Baseball (MLB) at-bat, New York Yankees prospect Jasson Dominguez made a powerful statement by hitting a home run off Houston Astros’ ace Justin Verlander. The 20-year-old outfielder’s impressive debut has already garnered attention and marked a historic moment for the Yankees.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone recalls being captivated by Dominguez’s confidence and skill at just 16 years old during a batting practice session in the team’s academy in the Dominican Republic back in 2019. Boone stated, “Right then he got your attention. It was like, it’s a 16-year-old kid [and] you see the skill set right in front of you. He had that kind of easy smile to him, handles himself really well.”
Dominguez’s two-run homer in his first MLB at-bat against the esteemed Verlander not only impressed his coach but also made him the youngest Yankees player to achieve this feat. He became the first Yankees player to hit a home run in his debut game since Aaron Judge did it on August 13, 2016.
The significance of his at-bat extended beyond the Yankees’ history. According to ESPN Stats & Information, it was only the second time in MLB history that a player hit a home run off a reigning Cy Young Award winner in their first at-bat. The first occurrence was in 2002 when Marcus Thames, also playing for the Yankees, homered off Randy Johnson.
Following his stunning opposite-field home run, Dominguez’s family erupted with joy in the stands. The rookie finished the game 1-for-4, contributing to the Yankees’ 6-2 victory.
Dominguez’s journey to the MLB has been highly anticipated ever since the Yankees signed him to a $5.1 million bonus. Known for his unique combination of strength and speed, he has earned the nickname “The Martian.” However, Dominguez remains unfazed by the pressure and focuses on his own development.
Dominguez’s promotion to the MLB comes alongside catcher Austin Wells, as the Yankees expanded their roster. Wells, regarded for his hitting prowess, aims to showcase his abilities in both offense and defense.
Manager Boone believes that Dominguez will live up to the expectations surrounding him and become an exceptional player in the league. Reflecting on Dominguez’s potential, he stated, “I think he’s going to be a really good player… not a finished product. And we’ll see how his journey goes.”
Dominguez’s debut in the major leagues makes him the youngest Yankees player since 1984 and the youngest position player since 1984. Having recently played at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, where he impressed with a .419 batting average, two doubles, and 10 RBIs, Dominguez has quickly ascended to the highest level of professional baseball.
As Dominguez’s dream of playing in the MLB comes true, he remains grounded and focused on his daily improvement. The young outfielder is grateful for the opportunity and determined to continue learning and growing in the league.
In addition to Dominguez’s remarkable debut, Aaron Judge, the Yankees’ star outfielder, also achieved a milestone by becoming the fastest player in MLB history to hit 250 home runs. Judge accomplished this feat in his 810th career game, surpassing the record set by Ryan Howard in 2010.
With two exceptional performances in one game, the Yankees are hopeful that Dominguez and Judge’s talent will continue to propel the team to success as they aim to turn around their season.