The Yankees made a splash this offseason by locking up Cody Bellinger, a move that solidifies their outfield but also creates a bit of a logjam-especially for rising star Jasson Domínguez. At just 22 years old, Domínguez has shown flashes of the talent that made him one of the most hyped prospects in baseball. But with Bellinger joining an already crowded outfield that includes Aaron Judge and Trent Grisham, Domínguez is suddenly the odd man out.
That raises a tough but necessary question for the Yankees front office: Is it time to trade Domínguez to address other areas of need?
One proposed deal making the rounds would send Domínguez to the Phillies in exchange for two of their promising young arms-right-handers Jean Cabrera and Zach McCambley. On paper, it’s a classic baseball trade: a young bat with upside for a pair of arms that could bolster a rotation in need of depth.
Let’s break it down.
The Case for Trading Domínguez
Domínguez’s 2025 season was solid, if unspectacular: a .257/.331/.388 slash line with 18 doubles, 10 home runs, 47 RBIs, and 23 stolen bases over 123 games. Those numbers point to a player still finding his footing at the big-league level-but also one with clear tools. He’s got speed, some pop, and a developing approach at the plate.
But the Yankees aren’t exactly in development mode. With a veteran core and a win-now mindset, they need players who can contribute immediately-and consistently.
Domínguez, despite his potential, is still a work in progress. His defense remains a concern, and there’s a growing sense that he might eventually settle in as more of a designated hitter than a reliable glove in the outfield.
That’s a tough sell on a team where the DH spot is already a revolving door and playing time is at a premium.
Adding to the logjam is top prospect Spencer Jones, who’s been climbing the ranks and could be ready to make his own case for a roster spot in the near future. With Bellinger, Judge, and Grisham all occupying outfield roles, the path to everyday playing time for Domínguez is murky at best.
What the Yankees Would Get in Return
In this proposed deal, the Yankees would receive Jean Cabrera and Zach McCambley-two arms who bring different strengths to the table.
Cabrera, ranked No. 11 in the Phillies’ system, is a high-upside starting pitcher known for his strikeout ability. He’s still developing, but the raw stuff is there: a fastball with life, a sharp breaking ball, and the kind of swing-and-miss potential that makes scouts take notice. For a Yankees rotation that’s been hit hard by injuries and age, Cabrera offers a shot at long-term value-and maybe even a surprise contributor sooner than expected.
McCambley, ranked No. 30 in the Phillies’ system, profiles more as a bullpen piece. But he’s an intriguing one.
He’s held hitters to a low batting average and has posted strong strikeout numbers, suggesting he could carve out a role in a middle-relief or setup capacity. The Yankees’ bullpen has been a strength in recent years, but you can never have too many arms, especially ones with upside and minor league options.
A Deal Worth Considering?
This isn’t the kind of blockbuster that grabs headlines, but it’s the kind of smart, forward-thinking move that could pay off down the line. Domínguez still has value-there’s no question about that-but if the Yankees don’t have a clear path for him to play, then his best value might come as a trade chip.
And with Spring Training just around the corner, the clock is ticking. The Yankees could use the early weeks of camp to showcase Domínguez to potential suitors, and a team like the Phillies-who have room for a young, controllable outfielder-might be a perfect match.
It’s never easy to part with a top prospect, especially one who’s shown flashes of brilliance. But if the return fills a more immediate need, and the player’s future role is uncertain, it might be the right move at the right time.