While Jazz Chisholm Jr. manned third base during their 2024 playoff run, he is expected to move to second base next season. MLB insider Jorge Castillo predicts the Yankees will turn to DJ LeMahieu as their starting third baseman.
In an ESPN article, Castillo wrote:
“The Yankees made several moves after pivoting from Juan Soto, addressing the roster’s imbalance from 2024. However, they still need to solidify either second or third base. If they acquire a third baseman, Jazz Chisholm Jr. would play second base—or remain at third if they add a second baseman instead. DJ LeMahieu, who has two years and $30 million left on his contract, is an internal candidate for third base. However, his injury-riddled and disappointing 2024 season raises questions about his ability to handle an everyday role at age 36. Other internal options include Oswaldo Cabrera, Oswald Peraza, and Jorbit Vivas, though the Yankees are likely to seek depth at one of these positions.”
LeMahieu, entering the fifth year of his six-year, $90 million contract, struggled with injuries in 2024, batting .204 with 2 home runs and 26 RBIs in 201 at-bats across 67 games. Despite being a three-time All-Star, four-time Gold Glove winner, and two-time Silver Slugger, his recent form has cast doubt on his reliability as an everyday player.
Yankees general manager Brian Cashman remains optimistic about LeMahieu’s role in 2025. Speaking to the New York Post, Cashman said:
“He’s a pro and will do everything in his power to contribute. I believe he’ll be healthy going into camp and will aim to erase the tough memories of the last two seasons. Injuries have derailed him.”
Although Castillo expects LeMahieu to take the third base role, the Yankees have reportedly explored other infield options. According to New York Post reporter Mark W. Sanchez, the Yankees have checked in on Brendan Rodgers and been linked to players like Luis Arraez and Jorge Polanco. Other free agent or trade targets include Ha-Seong Kim, Alec Bohm, Nolan Arenado, and Kiké Hernandez.
Despite uncertainties in the infield, the Yankees enter the 2025 season with the third-best odds of winning the World Series.
