New York Yankees: Three destinations for DJ LeMahieu

NEW YORK, NY - SEPTEMBER 12: DJ LeMahieu #26 of the New York Yankees in action against the Baltimore Orioles during the tenth inning at Yankee Stadium on September 12, 2020 in the Bronx borough of New York City. The Yankees won 2-1. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - SEPTEMBER 12: DJ LeMahieu #26 of the New York Yankees in action against the Baltimore Orioles during the tenth inning at Yankee Stadium on September 12, 2020 in the Bronx borough of New York City. The Yankees won 2-1. (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images)
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(Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)
(Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)

Toronto Blue Jays

The Toronto Blue Jays were interested in DJ LeMahieu before he signed with the New York Yankees prior to the 2019 season. They are once again in pursuit of the talented infielder.

LeMahieu could solve several problems for the Blue Jays. Toronto has a potential hole at third, as Travis Shaw is a candidate to be non-tendered. LeMahieu could slot at third, or remain primarily as a second baseman and move Cavan Biggio to the hot corner.

He would also provide a different element to the top of the Blue Jays lineup. While he may not possess the type of speed that one thinks of for a leadoff hitter, LeMahieu makes contact, striking out in only 13.1% of his plate appearances over the past five seasons. In that time, he has also drawn walks at an 8.2% clip, exactly league average. He simply gets on base and hits the ball hard.

Although there is expected to be some regression in terms of his power numbers, especially if LeMahieu leaves Yankee Stadium, his ability to make consistent hard contact and play multiple positions on the infield makes him an intriguing target. For the Blue Jays, who have stated that they intend to seek upgrades throughout the roster, LeMahieu would certainly be that player wherever he is put in the lineup.

Besides, adding DJ LeMahieu would weaken their divisional rivals. That has to be worth consideration.