yankees Re-Sign Dominic Smith to Minor League Deal

yankees Re-Sign Dominic Smith to Minor League Deal

The New York Yankees have re-signed first baseman and outfielder Dominic Smith to a minor league contract, the team announced on March 31, 2025. This move comes after Smith initially joined the Yankees during spring training on a minor league deal but opted out when he didn’t make the Opening Day roster. Now, he returns to the organization, providing valuable depth to the club’s minor league system and a potential call-up option if needed later in the season.

Smith’s Journey Back to the Yankees

Smith, 28, had a solid showing in Yankees camp during spring training, hitting .297 with an .857 OPS over 13 exhibition games. He added three home runs and 12 RBIs in that span, demonstrating his ability to contribute offensively. Despite his performance, the Yankees did not include him on the Opening Day roster, leading to his decision to opt out in search of other opportunities. However, with limited major league options elsewhere, Smith ultimately chose to return to the Yankees organization.

This re-signing suggests that the Yankees still see potential in Smith, whether as a depth piece or a future contributor at the major league level. With his ability to play both first base and corner outfield positions, he brings versatility, a trait often valued in the modern game.

A Career of Ups and Downs

Smith was originally a first-round pick (11th overall) by the New York Mets in the 2013 MLB Draft. He spent several years developing in their minor league system before making his MLB debut in 2017. Initially viewed as the Mets’ first baseman of the future, he faced stiff competition from Pete Alonso, who ultimately secured the everyday job at first base.

One of Smith’s best seasons came during the shortened 2020 campaign when he hit .316 with a .993 OPS, 10 home runs, and 42 RBIs in just 50 games. His impressive production even earned him MVP votes that year. However, struggles in the following seasons led the Mets to part ways with him after 2022.

Since then, Smith has bounced around multiple organizations, including the Washington Nationals, Boston Red Sox, and Cincinnati Reds, before signing with the Yankees this past offseason. His return to the Yankees’ minor league system indicates that he is still determined to find his place in the majors once again.

What This Means for the Yankees

The Yankees’ decision to bring Smith back could be strategic in several ways. Firstly, he provides immediate depth at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, where he can continue to refine his game while serving as an experienced option if the major league team needs reinforcements.

Secondly, his left-handed bat offers balance to the organization’s roster. The Yankees currently have Anthony Rizzo as their primary first baseman, with limited left-handed power options behind him. If Rizzo were to miss time due to injury, Smith could be an emergency replacement.

Additionally, Smith’s ability to play outfield corners makes him a potential backup option in case of injuries or underperformance by other players on the Yankees’ major league roster.

Smith’s Path Back to the Majors

For Smith to make it back to the big leagues, he’ll need to continue proving himself at Triple-A while waiting for an opportunity. Injuries, trades, or roster shuffling could open the door for a midseason call-up. If he maintains strong offensive production, the Yankees might view him as a potential left-handed bat off the bench or even a platoon option.

At just 28 years old, Smith still has time to carve out a meaningful role in the majors. While he’s yet to replicate his 2020 success over a full season, his talent remains evident. His return to the Yankees signals that he’s willing to put in the work to regain a spot in the majors.

Re-signing Dominic Smith is a low-risk, high-reward move for the Yankees. He brings experience, positional flexibility, and left-handed power to their minor league system. If he can stay consistent at the plate, he could find himself back in the Bronx at some point this season.

For now, Smith’s journey continues in the minors, but with persistence and opportunity, his return to the majors may not be far away.