Yankees Shake Up Their Lineup: LeMahieu Designated for Assignment
New York – The New York Yankees have made a decision that resonated throughout the baseball world this Wednesday, designating experienced infielder DJ LeMahieu, a two-time batting champion in the Major Leagues, for assignment. In a strategic move, the team has promoted young Venezuelan Jorbit Vivas from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
This move puts LeMahieu’s future with the organization in perspective. The team now has a seven-day window to finalize a trade, place him on waivers, or, failing that, send him directly to the minor leagues. The player’s considerable salary, $15 million for both this season and the next, adds complexity to the possibility of a trade.
LeMahieu, who will celebrate his 37th birthday this Sunday, has had a season below his expectations, with an OPS of .674 in 142 plate appearances. Additionally, his defensive performance has shown a notable decline, as evidenced during the recent Subway Series against the Mets, where he was relegated to a substitute role.
Since his arrival in 2019, LeMahieu was a key player for the team, achieving a milestone by becoming the first player in the modern era (since 1900) to win batting titles in both leagues: with Colorado in 2016 (.348) and with the Yankees in 2020 (.364). A feat later matched by Venezuelan Luis Arráez.
This change also marks the beginning of a new stage for Jorbit Vivas, 23, who has stood out in Triple-A for his ability to connect with the ball, his speed, and his defensive versatility.
LeMahieu’s departure could mark the end of an era for one of the most consistent players of recent years in the Yankees’ lineup, as the club looks to revamp its roster and remain competitive in the tight American League East race.
