Once, Jasson Domínguez carried the weight of a franchise's future. Now, less than two years after being labeled the New York Yankees' next generational talent, the young outfielder is suddenly facing an uncertain path.

With trade rumors heating up and the Yankees in pursuit of big-name replacements, Domínguez's once-secure role is growing increasingly unclear.

How Jasson Domínguez Became the Yankees' No. 1 Prospect

MLB Trade Rumors: Could Jasson Dominguez Be a 'Fallback' Option MLB Trade Rumors: Could Jasson Dominguez Be a 'Fallback' Option
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Expectations skyrocketed when the Yankees signed Jasson Domínguez out of the Dominican Republic in 2019 for a massive $5.1 million bonus. Scouts raved about his rare athleticism, with one calling him "an elite-level athlete ... the kind of player who makes the hair on your arm stand up."

By 2024, he became the undisputed Yankees' No. 1 prospect, drawing comparisons to franchise icons and having Empire Sports Media's Alexander Wilson peg him as "the face of the franchise for the next decade."

His quick rise made him a symbol of hope for the Bronx Bombers' next era.

Why Domínguez's Future Is in Question

That rosy forecast has undergone a significant shift. ESPN insider Jeff Passan recently pegged the 22-year-old as one of the top trade candidates for the upcoming MLB winter meetings.

Making matters even murkier, Yankees GM Brian Cashman made the curious comment that Domínguez is a "fallback" option for the outfield, which many seem to consider a significant red flag.

WFAN commentator Evan Roberts didn't mince words, saying, "He does not believe in Jasson Domínguez," after hearing Cashman's remarks.

Reports from Pinstripes Nation's Esteban Quiñones further say that Cashman attempted to trade Domínguez to the Minnesota Twins earlier this year. Though the deal collapsed, the attempt signaled how the front office now views him: valuable, but expendable.

Outfield Logjam: How Yankees Roster Moves Impact Domínguez

The outfield picture for the Yankees leaves Domínguez squeezed out. Aaron Judge remains locked in at right field, and then Trent Grisham - who surprisingly accepted the team's $22 million qualifying offer - is the favorite for center field at the moment.

That leaves left field as Domínguez's only potential home, barring a New York signing of free-agent star Cody Bellinger. If Bellinger returns to the Bronx, Domínguez may again find himself without a clear role.

In another trade rumor report, Paul Skenes denied all Yankees rumors. He clarified that he would like to win a ring with the Pittsburgh Pirates.