In a surprising turn, DJ LeMahieu’s seven-year run with the New York Yankees has ended. The organization designated him for assignment on July 9, 2025, and released him the next day.
This move shakes up one of MLB’s most iconic franchises. Ripples are spreading not just in the Yankees’ clubhouse, but across the league.
Let’s dig into why LeMahieu’s departure happened, what it means for the Yankees’ roster, and the legacy he leaves behind.
Why the Yankees Moved On From DJ LeMahieu
The Yankees didn’t make this call on a whim. LeMahieu’s release followed years of declining productivity and nagging injuries that kept holding him back.
Manager Aaron Boone and GM Brian Cashman reportedly had some tough conversations before pulling the trigger. Boone still praised LeMahieu’s past as a key player in the Bronx, but ultimately, they believed moving on was best for the team.
The Financial Obligations Behind the Release
The Yankees are taking a financial hit here, which is rare in today’s tight-budget sports world. They owe LeMahieu about $22 million—covering the rest of his $15 million salary for 2025 and another $15 million for 2026.
Even with that price tag, Cashman saw a chance to free up roster space and try something new. The team’s recent struggles probably made the decision easier, though it still stings the wallet.
LeMahieu’s Role in Recent Years
LeMahieu, now 36, used to be the backbone of the Yankees’ infield and lineup. He was at his peak in 2020, finishing third in AL MVP voting.
But lower-body injuries, especially a calf issue in spring training this year, chipped away at his defense and bat. Since 2021, his 99 wRC+ puts him near the bottom among regulars for overall batting.
The Yankees’ Next Steps: A Roster Refresh
LeMahieu’s exit is part of the Yankees’ ongoing roster shakeup. His spot opened the door for Jazz Chisholm Jr. to move to second base, a job LeMahieu once held.
Jorbit Vivas now fills LeMahieu’s roster spot. Oswald Peraza, JC Escarra, and Vivas are all in the mix at third base, looking to make their mark.
A Pattern of Veteran Departures
LeMahieu isn’t the only veteran the Yankees have let go recently. Since 2023, Aaron Hicks, Josh Donaldson, and Harrison Bader have all been released.
The front office seems determined to swap out aging players for younger talent. They’re clearly hoping to rediscover the spark that made the Yankees perennial World Series contenders.
Reflecting on LeMahieu’s Yankees Legacy
LeMahieu’s later struggles shouldn’t erase what he did in pinstripes. From 2019 to 2020, he stood out as one of baseball’s best, winning two Silver Sluggers and a Gold Glove in 2022 as a utility infielder.
His knack for hitting for average and playing multiple positions made him a fan favorite in the Bronx.
The Fade of a Star
LeMahieu’s departure shows just how tough pro sports can be. Injuries and slipping performance can catch up to even the brightest stars, sometimes faster than anyone expects.
He just couldn’t bounce back from his physical setbacks, and that ended his run with the Yankees, no matter how good things looked early on.
What’s Next for DJ LeMahieu?
So what’s next for LeMahieu? Will another MLB team roll the dice on him, or is this the end of the road?
He’s still a former batting champ and defensive anchor, so there might be interest out there. But unless he can find his old form, it’s hard to say if he’ll get another shot in the big leagues.
Final Thoughts on a Yankees Era Ending
DJ LeMahieu’s release really sums up how baseball just keeps spinning—big names come and go, and someone else always steps up. The Yankees are moving on, but LeMahieu’s years in pinstripes had their share of shining moments and tough endings.
He gave MVP-level seasons, but in the end, the team had to make a hard call. Now, with the infield getting a shake-up, it feels like a reminder: major-league baseball doesn’t slow down for anybody.
For more updates on MLB player moves, roster shakeups, or just thoughts on the Yankees’ season, check back here. We’ll be following along.
Here is the source article for this story: Yankees designate DJ LeMahieu for assignment, still owed $15 million in 2026
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