Dom Smith Exercises Opt-Out Clause, Becomes Free Agent After Yankees Decline Roster Spot

The Yankees' decision reflects their focus on adding right-handed hitters, leaving Smith to explore opportunities with other teams following a strong spring training.

Dom Smith opted out of his minor league contract with the Yankees on March 21, 2025, after not being added to the 40-man roster.
The Yankees signed Smith, a former Mets prospect, to a minor league deal with an opt-out clause in January 2025.
Smith's strong spring training performance highlighted his potential, but the Yankees prioritized adding right-handed hitters to their roster.
Opt-out clauses are a standard feature in minor league contracts, allowing veteran players to seek opportunities with other teams if not promoted to the major league roster.
Smith is now a free agent and may have improved chances of joining another team's 40-man roster ahead of the 2025 MLB season.