Alex Verdugo keeps staving off Jasson Dominguez threat with solid Yankees postseason play

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Alex Verdugo’s sacrifice bunt in Game 3 of the ALDS wasn’t quite as flashy as his decisive RBI single in Game 1.

But it was an example of Verdugo showing that he understands why manager Aaron Boone has turned to him in left field over rookie Jasson Dominguez in each of the first four playoff games, including Thursday’s potential clincher.

The sacrifice bunt — Verdugo’s third of the year — set up Juan Soto’s sacrifice fly in a one-run win that shifted the series in the Yankees’ favor.

“Boone and I had a conversation during the workout period time before this series started, and we kind of understood we were on the same page,” Verdugo said. “And just my job is to go make every play I can, and go up there and have good situational hitting — getting guys over, getting guys in.”

It looked for a time in September like Dominguez might be the choice to complete a power-hitting playoff trio of outfielders, but his couple of misplays combined with some changes Verdugo made to his work ethic and eating habits reopened the door for the veteran.

“I was upset about it, but at the same time I felt like I needed to correct some things,” Verdugo said. “I got motivated, and sometimes you need to get kicked in the teeth to kind of get that fire lit back under you.”

Boone did not use a pinch hitter in any of the first three games.

Dominguez, who has a .747 OPS in 100 career plate appearances, is lurking on the bench, undeterred by his limited role.

“He’s kind of got a joy to who he is, and you wouldn’t know one way or the other,” Boone said. “He’s the same Jasson to me.”

Verdugo’s ability to do the little things right is well suited for the playoffs, where mistakes are magnified.

He relies on his “track record” and “past memories” including a trip to the 2021 ALCS with the Red Sox.

“When it’s the moment, when it’s time to really shine, really do something, I live for the stage and I love it,” Verdugo said. “This is the kind of baseball that I want to be a part of.

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“And I think the team would agree that it’s a good fit, feels good. I want to be out there every day for my guys, and I’m going to save every run I can and I’m going to produce at the plate, as well.”

Boone has flip-flopped first basemen Oswaldo Cabrera and Jon Berti in each of the first four games, but Dominguez’s impact on the playoffs seems like it will have to come late in games.

Verdugo believes Dominguez — his could-be competition for a job with the Yankees in 2025 — is ready if called upon.

“He’s going to be a great player,” Verdugo said. “He’s handling it like a pro. Whether it’s getting on the bases to run for [Giancarlo Stanton] or getting a pinch-hit at-bat, he’s ready for that moment. It’s just the time will tell.”