The New York Yankees will embark on a crucial second phase of the 2024 MLB season after enduring a difficult stretch in July. While they are still comfortably seated in the postseason race, the team is not in a position to take anything for granted at this point.
Meanwhile, the Yankees front office is trying its best to help the team’s postseason quest by bringing in a few roster upgrades at the upcoming trade deadline. Recently, MLB analyst Chris Kirschner urged the Yanks to aggressively pursue the San Francisco Giants’ third baseman, as he could be an ideal replacement for DJ LeMahieu.
Yankees Strongly Linked To Matt Chapman Ahead Of Trade Deadline
Veteran third baseman DJ LeMahieu is nothing but a burden for the New York Yankees. The 37-year-old has recorded just four extra-base hits in over 120 plate appearances, and he appears washed after a delayed debut to the year. Moreover, with the season entering the second half, the franchise does not have time to reply in the hope of a resurgence. It’s in the best interest of the Yanks to consider signing a reinforcement at the trade deadline. And Chris Kirschner of The Athletic has a perfect suggestion for the front office. “Acquiring the Giants’ Matt Chapman would help fill the hole the Yankees have on the left side of their infield with DJ LeMahieu’s struggles,” Kirschner said.
Matt Chapman, who signed a three-year contract with the Giants earlier this off-season, brings significant offensive upside. The former All-Star infielder’s ability to draw walks and maintain a solid on-base percentage would provide the Yankees with a reliable middle-of-the-order bat. Besides the offensive upgrade, Chapman is also one of the best defensive third basemen in the league. His multiple Gold Glove awards attest to his exceptional fielding skills. Hence, adding Chapman would provide stability at third base, allowing other players to settle into their natural positions. Moreover, the Bombers are in a win-now mode, and acquiring Chapman aligns with their immediate goal of contending for a championship. His addition could provide the necessary spark to revive the team’s postseason aspirations.
Can Yanks Trade DJ LeMahieu At Deadline?
DJ LeMahieu’s struggles this season has forced fans to think if a potential trade could be possible at the August 1 deadline. However, Joel Sherman of NY Post dropped cold water on the fans’ hopes. He claimed that New York Yankees are handcuffed to LeMahieu due to the latter’s contract complication. The team currently owes him $15 million in salary which is way too much for a declining player.
Hence, DJ LeMahieu is expected to stay with the Yankees beyond the August 1 deadline. Moreover, second baseman Gleyber Torres, also suffering from a slump, is expected to escape the trade threat due to non-existence of proper replacement. Torres, hitting .231/.307/.347, will likely he held back by Yanks at the deadline. This essentially means that no major roster changes are expected at the upcoming deadline and current roster will have to figure things out themselves.
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