The New York Yankees’ already depleted third base options took another hit last week when veteran D.J. LeMahieu, who only appeared in 67 games last season, injured his left calf during his spring debut. The 36-year-old stated, “it’s probably going to be a little bit” before he can return, leaving his participation in the Yankees’ March 27 opener uncertain.
The Yankees’ third base situation has been the subject of much speculation, with trade rumors involving St. Louis Cardinals star Nolan Arenado gaining attention. Recently, Bleacher Report predicted that Arenado could eventually join the Yankees.
According to Kerry Miller of Bleacher Report, “They were reportedly one of the teams Arenado was willing to waive his no-trade clause for, and there’s a decent chance they’ll be desperate enough to take on the rest of his contract after a few months of trying to platoon Oswaldo Cabrera, DJ LeMahieu, and Oswald Peraza at the hot corner.”
Arenado’s current contract is a significant financial burden, totaling over $90 million, with $52 million in salary through 2027 and nearly $40 million in deferred money until 2041. Although his stats have declined in recent years, Arenado remains a key player, with a .272 batting average, 16 home runs, 71 RBIs, and a .719 OPS in 152 games during 2024. If no trade occurs, Cabrera and Peraza are expected to share third base duties for the Yankees in 2025.
