DJ DFA'D SAYS MY BUDDY AL

It’s official: the Yankees have designated DJ LeMahieu for assignment.  This was the text I received. I was playful with my buddy Al.

But just like that, one of the most respected veterans in the clubhouse is out, and it feels—well—wrong. Necessary? Maybe. But still wrong.

This move almost certainly marks the end of DJ’s Yankee career, even with $22 million left on his deal through next season. That’s a cold breakup, even by Yankees standards. But this isn’t just about money or numbers—this is about a guy who gave everything and quietly got pushed aside. My opinion of course.

Let’s set the record straight: DJ LeMahieu never whined, never made excuses, never played the diva card. He just showed up, did his job, and did it well—whether at second, third, or first. And when the Yankees were down bad over the last few seasons, guess who was still trying to get back while others were cashing checks and jogging to first? Yeah, DJ.

Now we’re supposed to believe he couldn’t handle third base physically. That's the story that's coming out.  According to general manager Brian Cashman, he had said to the Yankees that he couldn't do it.  Maybe his range has shrunk, sure. But the guy never backed down from a challenge. I don’t buy the idea that he refused to play 3rd. What I do believe is this: DJ would’ve crawled to the hot corner if it meant helping the team.

But here’s where the plot really turns: the Yankees got cute. They tried sliding Jazz Chisholm Jr. over to third—despite him being a natural second baseman—because, hey, flashy sells. And surprise, surprise… Jazz struggled. Badly. Then he publicly reminded everyone, “I’m a second baseman.” That sound you heard was Yankee brass choking on their analytics.

Now with their shiny new All-Star demanding his real position back, DJ became the odd man out. Not because he couldn’t play—but because it was easier to shove the aging veteran off the roster than admit their plan blew up in their face.

And let’s be real here: this isn’t just baseball. It’s branding. You move mountains for the guy who makes the All-Star team and sells jerseys. You cut ties with the quiet, aging vet, even if he gave you some of your best years in recent memory. That’s the game now.

Still, DJ deserves better. This is a guy who gave the Yankees everything. Gold Gloves. A batting title. Leadership. Professionalism. No drama. He was the adult in the room when the team desperately needed one. And now, he’s getting shown the door like he’s just some roster clog.

So, here’s to DJ LeMahieu—one of the good ones. A real Yankee in every way that mattered. It’s a shame it had to end like this, but maybe it’s for the best. He deserved more than being a pawn in the Yankees’ position shuffle.

Thanks, DJ. You’ll be missed more than the front office realizes.