So, many will say, DJ LeMahieu is the glue on this team. I would agree that statement two years ago. But now, there is no glue on the Yankees. One could argue that Aaron Judge or perhaps Gerrit Cole hold that spot, but not LeMahieu. So this begs the question, will the Yankees part ways with DJ LeMahieu next season.
"It would be a tough departure for the Yankees organization and fan base should they lose their two-time silver slugger. LeMahieu has been around for several playoff runs and has been a clutch hitter in that time. However, it is clear that his career is on the decline and his best days may be behind him. Waiving LeMahieu would be hard to justify unless there’s a plan for a replacement, but trading the 35-year-old for a substantial package to a World Series contender may be the best route for Cashman who will be looking to squeeze as much value out of this roster as he can," reported Sports Illustrated.
LeMahieu is batting .243 with 15 home runs and 43 RBIs this season. That is a far cry from his stand out season in 2019 when he hit 26 home runs, 102 RBIs and batted .327. He has sustained a long term injury to his toe which has impacted his playing time in 2022, and one could say he is still laboring with it today.
"Based on his production over the last three seasons and the 45 million still owed to him over the next three seasons, it is fair to say that LeMahieu won’t command the same return that he may have once commanded. A young prospect, a depth piece and some cash could be the package that New York would receive for the star," reported Sports Illustrated.
The Yankees may have missed the opportunity to trade LeMahieu at the trade deadline this year. According to NJ.com, "The Yankees probably could have moved DJ LeMahieu, a .220 hitter at the All-Star break while insisting he wasn’t hurt. The two-time batting champ was following a down season with his worst ever, but his infield play at third, second and first was still above average. Also, a change of scenery perhaps could have sparked better hitting from an old pro who has been a beloved teammate everywhere he’s been."
Bottom line, as evidenced by the strong line up Baby Bombers, the Yankees need to get younger. Guys like LeMahieu have added value, but it may be time for them to move on if the Yankees are going contend in 2024 and beyond. It may be time to part ways with our beloved DJ and other aging players for the good of the team. It may be the only way they have a chance to win again.
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--Suzie Pinstripe
BYB Senior Managing Editor
Twitter: @suzieprof
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