Yankees’ dilemma: To keep or trade their All-Star infielder

As the 2023 season draws to a close, the New York Yankees have signaled their focus on developing the next generation of talent, with five players under the age of 24 getting substantial playing opportunities in the late stages of the season.

Having some young talent gain valuable experience during the final stretch of the 2023 season is a clear indication that the New York Yankees are looking to build a strong core for the future.

General Manager Brian Cashman is hopeful that these emerging talents can become integral pieces in the team’s long-term plans. However, this transition to youth also means that some seasoned veterans who have been part of past playoff runs with the Yankees may find themselves on the way out. Notably, players like Josh Donaldson and Harrison Bader have already moved on after being waived by the team.

Will Yankees part ways with LeMahieu

One such veteran who could potentially be on the list of candidates for a departure is 35-year-old infielder DJ LeMahieu. LeMahieu, who joined the Yankees from the Colorado Rockies in 2019, has been a dependable presence on the roster. In his debut season with the team, he had a career year, hitting 26 home runs, driving in 102 runs, and posting an impressive slash line of .327/.375/.518.

LeMahieu continued to perform well in the shortened 2020 season due to COVID-19, with a remarkable .364 batting average, a .421 on-base percentage, and a .590 slugging percentage. These numbers earned him a six-year, $90 million contract before the 2021 season.

However, since signing the deal, LeMahieu hasn’t reached the heights of his 2019 season, with his home run and RBI totals over three seasons totaling 37 and 146, respectively, while batting around .250.

Despite the drop in statistics, LeMahieu’s value to the team extends beyond the numbers. He has demonstrated remarkable versatility by playing nearly every infield position for the Yankees, excelling in each role. Additionally, he brings valuable experience and leadership qualities that are not easily replaceable.

Can the Yankees afford to let him go?

Considering his recent production and the $45 million still owed to him over the next three seasons, it’s unlikely that LeMahieu would command the same return as he might have in the past. The Yankees could potentially receive a young prospect, a depth player, and cash in exchange for the star. Alternatively, given his age and salary, there may be limited interest from other teams, leading Cashman to consider waiving him, similar to the approach taken with Bader and Donaldson.

Losing LeMahieu would undoubtedly be a significant departure for the Yankees organization and its fan base, as he has been a key contributor during numerous playoff runs and has a reputation as a clutch hitter. However, it’s evident that his career is on the decline, and his best days may be behind him. The decision to waive or trade the 35-year-old will be a challenging one, but it may ultimately come down to whether the Yankees have a suitable replacement in mind. Cashman will likely aim to extract as much value as possible from the roster in the best interest of the team’s future. Time will tell, but a pivotal decision awaits the Yankees’ front office.

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