WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — In a night that showcased the power of youth, Jasson Dominguez delivered a stellar performance, hitting three home runs and driving in seven runs to lead the New York Yankees to a commanding 10-2 victory over the Oakland Athletics on Friday night. This marked a significant breakout for the 22-year-old rookie, who became the youngest Yankee ever to achieve a three-homer game, surpassing the previous record held by Joe DiMaggio.
The Yankees’ offensive fireworks began in the third inning when Dominguez and veteran Paul Goldschmidt launched back-to-back solo shots off Athletics starter Osvaldo Bido (2-3). Dominguez’s first home run set the tone for the game, and he didn’t stop there, adding another solo homer in the seventh inning against Hogan Harris, followed by a grand slam in the eighth against Elvis Alvarado.
Dominguez's explosive outing was complemented by a solid performance from pitcher Will Warren, who allowed just one run over 7 1/3 innings, striking out seven and walking one. Warren’s strong showing came after a series of inconsistent starts, and his effort lowered his ERA from 5.65 to 4.75. The Yankees have now won three straight games, increasing their lead in the AL East to a season-high three games over the second-place Red Sox.
"It was a great night for me, but it’s all about the team," Dominguez said after the game. "We’re building something special here, and I just want to contribute every time I step on the field." His performance not only lifted his batting average from .231 to .250 but also highlighted his potential as a rising star in the league.
The Yankees’ offense was relentless, and the team’s depth was evident as both Jorbit Vivas and J.C. Escarra contributed two hits apiece. Vivas, who was recently called up from Triple-A, and Escarra, who had struggled earlier in his career, both stepped up in a big way, showing the depth of talent the Yankees possess.
Despite the Yankees’ dominance, the game was not without its moments of controversy. In the fifth inning, a pivotal play involving Goldschmidt and Athletics outfielder JJ Bleday initially ruled a catch was overturned after a replay review. Trent Grisham, who had been on second base, was sent back to third after umpires determined he would not have scored had the call been made correctly from the start. However, Dominguez later followed up with a sacrifice fly that brought Grisham home, making the score 3-0.
The Yankees’ offensive onslaught continued as they scored three more runs in the eighth inning, capped off by Dominguez’s grand slam that sent the crowd into a frenzy. The game drew a crowd of 12,049, many of whom were Yankees fans, eager to see their team in action at the Athletics’ new temporary home, Sutter Health Park.
Dominguez’s performance is particularly noteworthy as he joins an elite group of Yankees. At just 22 years and 91 days old, he has etched his name in the franchise’s history books, eclipsing DiMaggio’s previous record of 22 years and 200 days. This feat has only added to the excitement surrounding the young player, who has quickly become a fan favorite.
The Yankees will look to continue their winning streak as they face the Athletics again on Saturday. Former Yankees pitcher JP Sears (4-2, 2.92) will take the mound for Oakland, seeking his first career win against his former team. Meanwhile, Carlos Rodon (4-3, 2.96) is set to pitch for New York, aiming to build on the momentum created by Warren’s impressive outing.
As the season progresses, the Yankees are hopeful that their young stars, including Dominguez, will continue to develop and contribute to the team’s success. With their current form, the Yankees are looking like serious contenders in the American League.
Looking ahead, the Yankees are scheduled to play the Athletics again on Sunday, with Rodon taking on Luis Severino (1-3, 3.62). The matchup promises to be another exciting chapter in what has already been a thrilling series.
As the season unfolds, fans will be watching closely to see if Dominguez can maintain his momentum and if the Yankees can solidify their place atop the AL East.
