Sat Mar 22 10:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Yankees’ Dominic Smith Opts Out of Contract, Becomes Free Agent

**TAMPA, FL** – First baseman Dominic Smith has opted out of his minor league contract with the New York Yankees and will become a free agent, ESPN confirmed Friday. The 29-year-old, who signed a minor league deal in January, impressed during Spring Training, hitting .297 with three home runs and an .857 OPS in 13 games. However, his chances of making the Yankees’ Opening Day roster were hampered by the team’s need for more right-handed hitters.

While Yankees manager Aaron Boone praised Smith’s performance and indicated a willingness to re-sign him, the team’s interest is contingent on Smith’s ability to secure a major league contract elsewhere. The Yankees currently project to have only one right-handed hitter on their bench, leaving Smith, a left-handed hitter, with limited opportunities. The team is actively searching for additional right-handed bench players. Smith’s decision to opt out comes after he met the deadline to do so if not added to the 40-man roster.

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