The New York Yankees are rolling into Chicago on a hot streak, but Tuesday night’s lineup raised an eyebrow before first pitch. Rookie outfielder Jasson Dominguez is dealing with a tooth infection — and while he insists he’s good to go, the coaching staff chose caution over adrenaline.
According to a report from MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch, Dominguez told reporters he’s available to play Tuesday but won’t be in the starting lineup against the White Sox. The update came via a post on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, and has since sparked conversation among fans wondering whether the infection could linger into the series.
Why This Matters for the Yankees
Dominguez has been a spark plug since his call-up, bringing energy and a rare combination of power and speed to a Yankees lineup already stacked with stars like Aaron Judge and Juan Soto. The Bombers currently sit at 43-27, holding the top spot in the American League East. Every game against a struggling White Sox team feels like a chance to build cushion before the summer dog days hit.
A tooth infection might sound minor — and in most cases it is — but for a professional athlete, it can throw off sleep, diet, and focus. The Yankees’ medical staff is likely monitoring the situation closely. Dominguez reportedly told Hoch he feels fine, but the team’s decision to keep him on the bench suggests they’re prioritizing his long-term health over a single regular-season start.
What Comes Next
With Dominguez available off the bench, expect him to be a late-inning option if the game tightens up. The Yankees haven’t announced whether he’ll start Wednesday, but given his availability Tuesday, it seems reasonable to expect him back in the outfield soon. The team has not confirmed the severity of the infection or whether antibiotics are involved.
This story will be updated as more information comes out of Chicago.
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