Blockbuster Bronx Move: Yankees Linked to $70 Million Infield Savior
The New York Yankees, clinging to a slim 2.5-game lead over the Tampa Bay Rays in the American League East as of Monday, are at the center of a sizzling trade rumor that could reshape their infield and inject power into their playoff chase. With third baseman Oswaldo Cabrera sidelined by injury, the team has shifted Jazz Chisholm Jr. into an unfamiliar role at third base, while DJ LeMahieu continues to man second base with middling returns.
LeMahieu’s bat has cooled considerably—despite a .255 average across 32 games, his OPS sits at a modest .684, raising eyebrows about his long-term viability as a regular starter. His defensive play at second base has also drawn criticism. Meanwhile, Chisholm, a natural second baseman, has looked out of place at third. The Yankees’ defensive alignment and offensive production are both in need of reinforcement—and fast.
Heavy Suggests Heavy Hitter: Ryan McMahon Floated as Bronx Bombers’ Infield Fix
According to Cole Shelton of Heavy, the Yankees could address multiple roster issues in one stroke by executing a high-stakes 2-for-1 deal. The proposed trade would send Ryan McMahon, the Colorado Rockies’ $70 million All-Star third baseman, to New York in exchange for top Yankees prospects Elmer Rodriguez-Cruz (No. 6) and Henry Lalane (No. 9). This strategic maneuver would allow Chisholm to return to second base, bolster the team’s defense, and push LeMahieu into a valuable utility role off the bench.
McMahon inked a six-year, $70 million extension with Colorado back in 2022. Despite a sluggish .222 batting average so far this season, he has already crushed 12 home runs and holds an OPS of .737—numbers that suggest he still has plenty of pop in his bat, especially on a playoff-caliber roster.
Bronx Bombers Banking on All-Star Spark: McMahon Seen as Instant Upgrade
“Perhaps playing on a competitive team could help his batting average as well,” Shelton suggested. The 2023 All-Star, McMahon has consistently delivered 20+ home runs in every full season since 2019, making him an intriguing addition to the Yankees’ already potent lineup. The lefty slugger’s glove is solid at third base and would bring much-needed stability to an area that’s been a revolving door in recent weeks.
Beyond this season, the move makes sense for the long term. McMahon is under team control through 2027, which offers the Yankees flexibility and insurance should top prospect George Lombard Jr. need more seasoning before cracking the big-league roster.
Prospects Out, Power In: Why Yankees Might Bet Big on McMahon
Trading Rodriguez-Cruz and Lalane is no small price. Rodriguez-Cruz is a highly regarded pitching prospect, while Lalane offers intriguing upside from the left side. But with New York clearly in win-now mode and staring down a wide-open American League field, the front office may decide the reward outweighs the risk.
Such a move would immediately upgrade the team’s offensive and defensive alignment without depleting the major league roster. LeMahieu would become a versatile backup at multiple infield positions—one of his most valuable attributes in past seasons—while Chisholm could thrive back at second base where he’s most comfortable.
Yankees Set the Stage for July Fireworks: Could McMahon Be the Spark?
As July looms and trade rumors intensify, this proposed deal is gaining steam among insiders and fans alike. With the Yankees poised for a postseason run and looking to fend off AL East rivals like the Rays and the Orioles, the acquisition of a proven All-Star like McMahon could prove pivotal.
The potential ripple effects are massive. Not only would the Yankees gain offensive depth and defensive flexibility, but they’d also eliminate the pressure of finding a third baseman during the offseason. And if Lombard Jr. arrives ready in 2026 or sooner? McMahon’s contract ensures he’ll retain significant trade value.
One player. Three positional upgrades. A playoff push supercharged.
