The New York Yankees have officially parted ways with DJ LeMahieu, a move signaling a strategic shift aimed at reshaping the team‘s infield. This decision, made in 2024, opens the path for Jazz Chisholm Jr. to take over second base, restoring him to his natural position, while also setting the stage for a potential major trade acquisition featuring Nolan Arenado at third base.
LeMahieu’s Departure and Its Implications for the Infield
Although the Yankees will absorb the remaining $22 million on LeMahieu’s contract, the organization judged that he no longer fit their plans at third base. The team is now preparing to rely more on younger players such as Oswald Peraza and Jorbit Vivas to fill the infield gap at third. By releasing an All-Star caliber player like LeMahieu, the Yankees have demonstrated a willingness to take a calculated risk in hopes of upgrading their lineup.
Renewed Interest in Acquiring Nolan Arenado
The Yankees are actively pursuing a trade for Nolan Arenado, the third baseman currently with the St. Louis Cardinals, reigniting a conversation that began during the offseason. While a previous proposal involving a one-for-one swap of Marcus Stroman for Arenado did not come to fruition, the Yankees appear ready to revisit negotiations given their recent roster changes and Arenado’s availability.
At 34, Arenado’s offensive production has declined, with his OPS+ dropping from a league-average 101 last season to 95 this year. Despite this setback at the plate, his defensive performance remains strong, highlighted by four defensive runs saved at third base this season. The Yankees’ hope is that Arenado can regain his offensive form and substantially strengthen their infield defense.
Assessing the Trade Market and Strategic Considerations
The Yankees face the complex task of balancing the cost and value in acquiring Arenado. The Cardinals appear open to trading him, which could create favorable conditions for the Yankees to secure this high-profile player. Although Arenado is no longer at his peak offensively, the front office believes he offers a clear improvement over the current internal candidates available for third base.
In making this potential deal, the Yankees aim to enhance their postseason aspirations by adding experienced talent, even if it requires assuming some risks related to Arenado’s recent batting decline. The team’s leadership is focused on making a calculated move that could pay dividends as the season advances.
The Broader Impact of These Roster Moves
This period marks a crucial juncture for the Yankees as they seek to solidify their competitive stance within Major League Baseball. Releasing a seasoned player like LeMahieu and targeting a veteran like Arenado signals their commitment to bold decisions in pursuit of success.
The outcome of the Nolan Arenado Yankees trade pursuit could dramatically alter the team’s makeup and influence its direction for the rest of the campaign. As the Yankees proceed cautiously but deliberately, they emphasize their readiness to make impactful moves to remain contenders in a highly competitive league.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Nolan Arenado the best 3rd baseman ever?
A. “He will be remembered as one of the best third basemen ever and is headed to Cooperstown,” said DeRo. Nolan Arenado is among only seven MLB players with over 350 home runs and more than 10 Gold Gloves. If Scott Rolen made it to the Hall of Fame, then any third baseman who is above average should also be considered. Joel Matthew Rolen was more than just above average.
Q. Has Nolan Arenado ever won a world series?
A. He was chosen for the All-Star Game three times and won the Gold Glove twice. In 2022, he came third in the National League MVP voting. However, his team, the Cardinals, didn’t win any playoff series with him. Now, Arenado has a chance to try for his first World Series title before retiring.