Top Trade Targets for Yankees’ Third Base After LeMahieu Move

The New York Yankees have officially turned a page by designating veteran infielder DJ LeMahieu for assignment. This move—a mix of roster reshuffling and strategy—comes right after Jazz Chisholm Jr. returned to second base.

LeMahieu showed some life at the plate lately, but his defensive skills just haven’t kept up. Injuries keep piling up too, making him the odd man out and leaving Yankees General Manager Brian Cashman with some tough choices as the trade deadline creeps closer.

So, why now? LeMahieu was once the picture of consistency, both at bat and in the field. But at 36, age and nagging injuries have clearly taken a toll.

He used to be a two-time batting champ and a defensive anchor. These days, his range is shrinking and his arm isn’t what it used to be, even if his bat’s warmed up a bit lately.

The money part stings too. The Yankees still owe him about $22 million through 2025, which is no small chunk of change.

But when a player can’t contribute at the level his contract demands, the team has to look ahead—even if it’s not an easy call.

Oswald Peraza Gets the Call at Third Base

With Chisholm Jr. back at second, Oswald Peraza steps in as the likely everyday third baseman. He’s just 23, brings energy, and has shown flashes of promise—honestly, exactly what the Yankees need while they try to steady themselves.

Jorbit Vivas and JC Escarra are around for depth, but let’s be real, Peraza’s the guy unless something changes fast.

GM Brian Cashman’s Next Steps

With LeMahieu gone, Cashman’s got a few glaring needs to sort out before the trade deadline. The pressure’s on, and the shopping list isn’t short:

• A reliable starting pitcher to help anchor the rotation.
• Relievers to give the bullpen a boost and stop those late-inning meltdowns.
• An infielder, especially a third baseman, to fill the hole LeMahieu leaves behind.

The Yankees have already started poking around the trade market, eyeing both quick fixes and longer-term options for third base.

Nolan Arenado: The Star With a Caveat

Nolan Arenado pops up as one of the biggest names rumored to be available. He’s a five-time Platinum Glove winner and a perennial All-Star, so the talent’s obvious.

But let’s not kid ourselves—his contract is massive, with $40 million owed through 2027. That’s enough to make anyone pause, especially if it means sacrificing flexibility or young talent down the road.

Ke’Bryan Hayes: A Defensive Whiz

If defense is the top priority, Ke’Bryan Hayes of the Pirates might be the dream target. He’s elite with the glove and under contract through 2029.

The snag? Pittsburgh probably won’t let him go unless someone absolutely blows them away with an offer.

Other Intriguing Options at Third Base

Of course, the Yankees don’t have to swing for the fences with Arenado or Hayes. There are a few other interesting names in the mix, each with their own quirks:

• Ryan McMahon (Rockies): Solid on both sides of the ball, but Colorado won’t give him up easily.
• Eugenio Suárez (Diamondbacks): A rental with legit power, though his glove leaves something to be desired.
• Ramón Urías (Orioles): Great against lefties and solid defensively, but probably more of a platoon piece than a true everyday guy.

Each player brings a different set of strengths and weaknesses. Cashman will have to weigh the costs—both in dollars and prospects—before making a move.

What’s Next for the Yankees?

Designating DJ LeMahieu for assignment shows the Yankees aren’t waiting around for miracles to fix their roster. This move opens up chances for young players like Peraza.

At the same time, there’s more pressure to find help on the trade market, especially at third base. Will Cashman go for a big name like Arenado, or is he eyeing a less flashy move?

No one really knows yet, but the Yankees have definitely shifted into trade-deadline mode. Fans can probably expect a lot of movement in the next few weeks.

The team needs to patch up weaknesses if they want any shot in the tough American League East. Cashman has plenty of targets, but can he actually pull off a plan that gets the Yankees back in the title conversation?

 
Here is the source article for this story: Five third basemen the Yankees could target at the trade deadline after designating DJ LeMahieu for assignment