Did the Yankees Really Cut DJ LeMahieu? Separating Fact from Fiction
In a surprising turn of events, rumors have circulated that the New York Yankees have parted ways with veteran infielder DJ LeMahieu, despite him being under contract through the 2026 season. However, as of March 29, 2025, no official sources have confirmed this move, leaving fans questioning the legitimacy of the reports.
The LeMahieu Contract and Declining Production
DJ LeMahieu signed a six-year, $90 million contract with the Yankees ahead of the 2021 season, following two outstanding years in the Bronx. In the shortened 2020 campaign, he won the AL batting title with a stellar .364 average while posting a .421 on-base percentage and .590 slugging percentage. He was seen as the heart of the Yankees’ offense, providing stability at the top of the lineup.
However, LeMahieu’s production has steadily declined since then. Battling injuries, he failed to replicate his early success and struggled at the plate. In 2023, he slashed just .243/.327/.390, with diminishing power numbers and a higher strikeout rate. The trend continued in 2024, as he suffered from multiple injury setbacks, limiting his playing time and effectiveness.
Yankees’ Third Base Conundrum
With LeMahieu’s availability in question, the Yankees have been exploring alternative options at third base. Throughout Spring Training 2025, Oswald Peraza and Oswaldo Cabrera have been competing for the starting role, raising speculation that the team may be preparing for a future without LeMahieu.
Yet, there has been no official announcement from the Yankees regarding LeMahieu’s release. While some unverified reports claim he has been cut, reputable sources have yet to corroborate the story. If the Yankees were to part ways with LeMahieu, they would likely still owe him the remaining salary on his contract unless they found a trade partner willing to absorb his deal.
Could the Yankees Move On from LeMahieu?
Despite no confirmation of his release, it’s reasonable to ask whether the Yankees should consider moving on from LeMahieu. His declining offensive performance, coupled with his age (he turns 37 in July), raises concerns about his long-term value. The Yankees have emphasized getting younger and more athletic, which might make LeMahieu’s roster spot expendable.
However, LeMahieu still provides defensive versatility, capable of playing first, second, and third base. Even if his bat is no longer elite, his experience and ability to make contact could prove valuable in a utility role. Additionally, releasing him outright without attempting a trade would be a costly decision for the Yankees, as they would be paying him to play elsewhere.
Conclusion: False Alarm or Imminent Decision?
For now, it appears that reports of DJ LeMahieu’s release are premature. Without an official statement from the Yankees or a credible source confirming the move, fans should take the news with skepticism. However, LeMahieu’s future in pinstripes remains uncertain, as his performance struggles and the emergence of younger infielders put his role in jeopardy. Yankees fans will need to stay tuned for any official updates as the season progresses.