On Friday, the New York Yankees reportedly signed infielder, DJ LeMahieu. What does this mean for their pursuit of Manny Machado?
In a surprising move, Ken Rosenthal has reported that the New York Yankees have signed veteran infielder, DJ LeMahieu. The reported contract is believed to be worth $24 million over the next two seasons. The former Colorado Rockies’ second baseman is expected to be a “multi-positional asset”, likely to see time at third, second and even first base (via Jack Curry of the YES Network).
This move likely signals the end of the Yankees quest after star shortstop, Manny Machado. This is a great move by Brian Cashman as he has signed LeMahieu, a two-time All-Star, to a relative bargain, especially when you consider the alternative, Machado’s asking price.
While LeMahieu does not sport much power, he possesses good bat to ball skills. The righty has always racked up lots of hits and sports a high career batting average. This will help the Yankees’ lineup as it will provide balance. The Bombers have needed a high average, table-setter to balance the lineup for their big bats. DJ LeMahieu is also a great fielder. The infielder has won three Gold Gloves over the past five seasons.
LeMahieu is set to join his former teammate, Troy Tulowitzki, as a member of the New York Yankees. From a big picture view, the righty’s signing is a hedge against the Yankees’ commitment to Tulowitzki, Luke Voit, and even Miguel Andujar.
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LeMahieu’s multi-positional abilities will allow him to play second base, with Gleyber Torres at shortstop, in the event that the oft-injured Tulowitzki cannot take the field. LeMahieu can also slide over to first base if Luke Voit struggles. The righty could also slide over to third base late in games, serving as a defensive replacement for the defensively challenged youngster, Miguel Andujar.
As for Manny Machado, LeMahieu’s signing likely signals the end of the possible fit. In my opinion, the 2019 New York Yankees are better without the expensive star. Didi Gregorius will regain his role as the team’s shortstop in 2020 and by choosing their current route, the club has signaled that they prefer Miguel Andujar as their long term option at third base.
DJ LeMahieu and Troy Tulowitzki are low(er) risk signings that won’t force the club to change their direction away from their young core. The 2019 Yankees will also be full of depth as they have valuable assets all around the diamond.
We are left to wonder, does this move make the New York Yankees the best team in baseball? We will have to wait and see, but the Bronx Bombers should be in the conversation.