Could Jasson Dominguez’s defensive struggles in New York Yankees spring training open the door for a potential win-win trade with their crosstown rivals, the New York Mets? The Yankees enter 2025 with sky-high expectations after reaching the World Series last October. The goal this season is clear: finish the job and secure the franchise’s record-extending 28th World Series title. The team made several impactful offseason moves, leading many MLB analysts to believe this year’s squad is even stronger.
However, the Yankees still have some areas of concern. Third base remains the most prominent position battle in spring training, but all eyes are also on top prospect Jasson Dominguez. Nicknamed “The Martian,” Dominguez is slated to be the starting left fielder, but his early spring training performances have raised questions about his readiness for an everyday role. A defensive miscue on Thursday added to the growing concerns about his ability to handle the job. Compounding the issue is the indefinite absence of designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton, who is sidelined with elbow injuries. These challenges could push the Yankees to explore a trade with the Mets for an impact player who could fill in at left field or serve as a temporary DH.
The Mets, meanwhile, have their own problems, particularly in their starting rotation. Free agent addition Frankie Montas is out for several months with a lat injury, and returning pitcher Sean Manaea is also dealing with an issue that could keep him on the injured list for the next month. This creates an opportunity for the Yankees to offer veteran pitcher Marcus Stroman, who they’ve been trying to trade for months. Stroman, a former Met, could provide a reliable solution for the Mets’ rotation. In return, the Yankees could target veteran outfielder Starling Marte, who the Mets have been looking to move.
Marte’s 2024 stats (94 games, .269 AVG, .327 OBP, .388 SLG, .715 OPS, 7 HR, 40 RBI, 46 R) suggest he could be a valuable addition for the Yankees. He could serve as a safety net in left field if Dominguez continues to struggle or step in as the DH while Stanton recovers. Marte’s contract expires after this season, and he has proven he can perform on New York’s big stage—when healthy.
The big question is whether the Mets would welcome Stroman back. While the team has a new front office and manager, Stroman’s past with the organization—including his decision to opt out of the pandemic-shortened 2020 season—might make some hesitant. Additionally, Stroman’s contract includes a vesting option for $18.3 million in 2026 if he pitches over 140 innings, which could complicate any potential deal.
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