In a twist of professionalism, former New York Yankees infielder DJ LeMahieu may have quietly helped Brian Cashman move on from himself.
According to The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal, LeMahieu vouched for former Colorado Rockies teammate Ryan McMahon during the Yankees’ internal discussions leading up to the trade deadline. He reportedly strongly recommended McMahon to the Yankees, even while facing his own uncertain future after they designated him for assignment and released him.
The Yankees acquired McMahon from Colorado in exchange for pitching prospects Griffin Herring and Josh Grosz, ending weeks of speculation about the third base vacancy. That hole in the infield widened after manager Aaron Boone made Jazz Chisholm Jr. the full-time second baseman, pushing LeMahieu out of the everyday lineup.
McMahon’s arrival closes a chapter and shows the respect LeMahieu still commands in the Yankees clubhouse, even after his release.
A Veteran’s Honest Assessment
LeMahieu’s endorsement of McMahon carried real weight inside the organization. The two spent two seasons together in Colorado, where McMahon emerged as a power bat and a plus defender. From 2021 to 2024, McMahon posted an OPS+ between 93 and 98 each year, hovering just below league average offensively, while providing consistently strong defense at third base.
He also launched 20 or more home runs in five of the last six seasons, offering the kind of reliable pop the Yankees have lacked from the hot corner. Boone and general manager Brian Cashman didn’t need convincing about McMahon’s tools, but LeMahieu’s backing added a level of clubhouse insight that front offices can’t always see in scouting reports.
Everyone recognized the irony of the situation. McMahon essentially took over the spot that LeMahieu once locked down, boasting elite contact skills and quiet Gold Glove defense. But instead of pushing back, the 37-year-old helped open the door.
Moving On, But Not Done
Designated for assignment earlier this month and now released, LeMahieu is currently a free agent and not yet retired. Per Rosenthal, the former MVP finalist plans to hold off on signing with a new team until after the trade deadline passes. He wants to avoid signing with a team only to get squeezed out by a last-minute roster shakeup.
That strategy makes sense, especially considering how his tenure in New York ended. After debuting late due to a left calf strain, LeMahieu showed flashes of offensive life in July, raising his average to .266. But the overall numbers weren’t encouraging: a .674 OPS, two home runs, and an OPS+ of 90 through 45 games.
It wasn’t enough for a Yankees team with postseason aspirations and aging position depth. Boone moved him to a bench role, and the front office cut ties. Still, LeMahieu’s defensive versatility and postseason experience make him a no-risk pickup. With New York still on the hook for $22 million through 2026, any team that signs him would only owe a prorated league minimum.
LeMahieu’s best days—like his 2019 All-Star season or 2020 batting title—are likely behind him. However, he demonstrated his value beyond the numbers by offering honest feedback about a former teammate—even while being pushed out.
The infielder veteran didn’t just accept his exit—he helped shape the next step for the Yankees.
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