As spring training kicks off, the Yankees are suggesting that DJ LeMahieu could be their starting third baseman on Opening Day. But let’s face it—there’s no way they truly see that as their best option. LeMahieu’s performance has steadily declined in recent years. While he’s still solid defensively, his offensive output has taken a significant hit. At this point, he’s more of a fallback option than a genuine everyday starter.
The Numbers Don’t Lie
LeMahieu had a rough season last year, posting a .204/.269/.259 slash line with just two home runs and 26 RBIs in 67 games. His 52 wRC+ was the lowest of his career, making him 48% worse than the league average. Injuries have certainly played a part in his decline, affecting his bat speed and his ability to drive the ball. The hope that he’ll suddenly regain his form in his age-36 season seems more like wishful thinking than a solid plan.
DJ LeMahieuA More Viable Option
While Oswaldo Cabrera may not be a superstar, he at least has potential. He posted a .247/.296/.365 line last season with an 88 wRC+, which is an improvement over what LeMahieu produced. Cabrera is also a switch-hitter with defensive flexibility and the possibility of improving offensively with regular at-bats. If the Yankees are serious about upgrading third base, Cabrera deserves more consideration than simply defaulting to LeMahieu because of familiarity.
A Postseason Non-Factor
If the Yankees are truly focused on a championship, why settle for a player who hasn’t even appeared in a postseason game since 2020? As pointed out by Mike Axisa of CBS Sports, “Peraza has appeared in a Yankees’ postseason game more recently than LeMahieu. So have Joey Gallo, Gio Urshela, and Andrew Velazquez.” Due to injuries, LeMahieu hasn’t played in a postseason game since the 2020 ALDS.
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