Four Yankees Face Uncertain Roles for 2027
After two consecutive ALDS losses, the New York Yankees face offseason decisions about Giancarlo Stanton, Jasson Dominguez, Anthony Volpe and Clarke Schmidt, all under contract for 2027. The players’ futures were discussed on November 2.
The Yankees enter the offseason with four returning players whose roles could change as the club reshapes its roster. Their questions come as New York balances veteran contracts with younger players emerging from its farm system after two straight exits in the American League Division Series.
Giancarlo Stanton appeared in only 24 regular-season games in 2026 after straining both calves. He made the playoff roster but had just two pinch-hit appearances, with Ben Rice getting time at designated hitter. Stanton’s 2027 contract year is guaranteed, followed by a $15 million club option with a $10 million buyout. More time off or a bench role could help manage his health, but another major injury could put his place at risk.
Jasson Dominguez hit .225 with a .267 on-base percentage and .368 slugging percentage, and sat out after a shoulder problem. He appeared in 57 major-league games and 59 in Triple-A. Spencer Jones’s late-season emergence and Heliot Ramos’s arrival have added competition. Dominguez could contend with Jones for center field if the Yankees do not add an outfielder.
Anthony Volpe returned from Triple-A with added experience at second and third base, but his major-league hitting remained uneven. He could be competing for a starting infield spot or a bench role. Clarke Schmidt, meanwhile, returned from Tommy John surgery in September before a biceps problem sent him back to the injured list. With a crowded rotation, he could be used in relief if healthy, while providing cover for a starter who is unavailable.