As the New York Yankees enter the 2025 offseason, they find themselves with significant financial flexibility, which could allow them to make key moves. The team’s primary objective is re-signing superstar Juan Soto, but lingering financial issues tied to underperforming contracts could complicate their plans.
A large portion of their payroll is tied up in players whose recent performances have not justified their hefty salaries, leading to some tough decisions. While Giancarlo Stanton redeemed himself with extraordinary playoff performance, DJ LeMahieu still continues to be a massive liability. His contract is particularly hindering Yankees pursuit of Juan Soto.
Yankees Need To Cut DJ LeMahieu Loose
A pressing issue for the New York Yankees is DJ LeMahieu’s declining performance. At 36 years old, LeMahieu’s production has steadily dropped over the past few seasons. After a decent 2023, where he played 136 games and posted an average of .243 with 15 home runs, LeMahieu’s 2024 season was nothing short of disappointing. In just 67 games, he hit a career-worst .204, with only two home runs and a subpar .369 on-base percentage. His wRC+ of 52 indicated that he was performing 48% below the league average as a hitter. While LeMahieu remained valuable defensively, playing multiple infield positions, his offensive struggles have made him a financial burden. LeMahieu is under contract for $30 million over the next two seasons, and given his age and performance drop, the Yanks are now stuck with his salary until 2027.
While a trade could be a potential option, finding a suitor willing to take on LeMahieu’s contract seems unlikely. The more realistic approach might be to cut ties with him, which would free up a roster spot but come at the cost of losing that investment. As LeMahieu’s role diminishes, utility man Oswaldo Cabrera is stepping up as a key contributor. Cabrera’s defensive versatility has made him a more valuable option for the Yanks, particularly as LeMahieu’s decline makes him less reliable. Cabrera’s strong performances at multiple positions, including second base, have earned him a more prominent role in the team’s future plans. The Bombers are also reportedly committed to Jazz Chisholm at third base, which further reduces LeMahieu’s chances of finding a meaningful role on the roster. Overall, how the Yankees handle LeMahieu’s contract and whether they can move on from it will be a pivotal story.
Yanks Linked To Cubs Infielder To Fill Torres’ Gap
As the New York Yankees enter the 2025 offseason, finding a solution at second base is a priority, especially with Gleyber Torres heading toward free agency. An intriguing option is to pursue Nico Hoerner, the Cubs’ 27-year-old infielder. Hoerner played over 1,200 innings at second base in 2024, posting a .986 fielding percentage.
Hoerner is also an asset on the base paths, stealing 31 bases last season, a stark contrast to Torres’ struggles in this area. Offensively, Hoerner posted a .273/.335/.373 slash line with seven home runs and 48 RBIs in 2024. While not a power hitter, his ability to make consistent contact and his high speed make him a valuable leadoff hitter, contributing to run generation.
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