The New York Yankees designated DJ LeMahieu for assignment on Wednesday, a move that could mark the end of his run in New York.
To fill his spot, rookie infielder Jorbit Vivas was called up from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
The team has seven days to trade LeMahieu or place him on release waivers. Trading him could prove difficult since the veteran infielder, who turns 37 this weekend, is owed $15 million this year and next. LeMahieu joined the Yankees in 2019 on a two-year $24 million contract and then signed a six-year, $90 million extension after the 2020 season.
This decision follows manager Aaron Boone’s announcement that LeMahieu was shifting to a bench role.
So far this year, he has posted a .674 OPS over 142 plate appearances and has struggled defensively, an issue highlighted during the recent Subway Series. He returned from injury in mid-May and had been playing second base before the club decided to move Jazz Chisholm Jr. there.
LeMahieu made history as the first player since 1900 to win batting titles in both leagues, hitting .348 with Colorado in 2016 and .364 with New York in 2020. Luis Arraez later matched that achievement across three teams.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].