MAJOR-UPDATE: Yankees Could Shake Up Infield with Blockbuster Trade for $70 Million Gold Glove Third Baseman

The New York Yankees initially planned to enter the season with DJ LeMahieu and Oswaldo Cabrera splitting time at third base, with LeMahieu expected to handle the majority of the workload. However, after a disappointing season marred by injuries, LeMahieu has now sustained a calf injury during a spring training game against the Houston Astros, as reported by MLB’s Bryan Hoch.

This latest setback raises questions about whether relying on the 36-year-old LeMahieu is a sustainable option for the Yankees. Manager Aaron Boone expressed concern, calling the injury “at least a little concerning.” Should LeMahieu start the season on the injured list, the Yankees may be forced to reconsider their infield strategy and potentially seek an upgrade.

While Cabrera could step into a larger role, his underwhelming performance last season with a .247/.296/.365 slash line makes that a less appealing option. The Yankees had previously been linked to third baseman upgrades, and LeMahieu’s injury might just be the nudge they need to make a move.

Although St. Louis Cardinals star Nolan Arenado has been a popular name in trade rumors, Jon Heyman of the New York Post reports that the Yankees aren’t interested in him, citing his high payroll as a barrier.A more affordable and surprising option could be Ke’Bryan Hayes of the Pittsburgh Pirates.

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• Ke’Bryan Hayes

Though rumors earlier this offseason about Hayes requesting a trade were debunked, Yankees broadcaster Michael Kay revealed that Hayes’ father is reportedly frustrated with his son’s development in Pittsburgh. Kay suggested the Yankees should consider inquiring about Hayes, noting that while Hayes is an excellent defender at third, his offense has room for improvement.

Hayes, who signed an eight-year, $70 million extension in 2022, would provide the Yankees with a younger, cost-effective alternative to Arenado. Under team control through 2030, Hayes could be a solid addition to the Yankees’ infield, though it would likely require the Yankees to part with multiple top prospects to secure him.