First baseman Dominic Smith has chosen to opt out of his contract with the New York Yankees, making him a free agent. The 29-year-old signed a minor league deal with the Yankees in January, aiming to secure a spot on the team’s bench for the upcoming season.
However, since he was not added to the 40-man roster, he exercised his right to opt-out by the Friday deadline. This decision allows him to explore opportunities with other teams, possibly securing a major league contract elsewhere.
Boone Praises Smith’s Performance, Yankees Open to Re-Signing if No MLB Offer
Despite his departure, Yankees manager Aaron Boone expressed interest in retaining Smith. Boone praised Smith’s contributions during spring training, calling him a “big league player” who performed well and was in excellent shape.
The Yankees could attempt to re-sign him, but his future with the team largely depends on whether he can find a better opportunity with another organization. If a major league offer comes his way, he is likely to move on.
Dominic Smith (MLB)Smith had an impressive showing in spring training, batting .297 with three home runs and a .857 OPS in 13 Grapefruit League games. He demonstrated his versatility by playing seven games at first base, two in left field, and four as a designated hitter. His solid offensive performance made a strong case for a roster spot, but he ultimately could not secure a place due to other team needs.
Yankees Prioritize Right-Handed Depth, Limiting Smith’s Roster Opportunities Despite Strong Performance
A major factor in Smith’s inability to make the Yankees’ roster was the team’s preference for right-handed batters. The Yankees’ lineup already features several left-handed hitters and switch-hitters who are stronger from the left side, creating a need for a right-handed bat on the bench. With limited roster flexibility, the Yankees were unable to offer Smith a guaranteed spot despite his strong spring showing.
As Smith departs, the Yankees remain focused on finding a right-handed hitter for their bench. Currently, Oswald Peraza is projected to be the only right-handed option off the bench, highlighting the team’s need for more balance.
The Yankees’ pursuit of right-handed depth likely contributed to Smith’s decision to explore other options in free agency. FanSided was the first to report his decision to opt-out, marking a turning point in his career as he seeks a new opportunity elsewhere.
