Yankees Third Base Dilemma: Will DJ LeMahieu Drag the Lineup Down in 2025?

The New York Yankees have one major question mark left in an otherwise stacked lineup: who will play third base?

After Gleyber Torres’ departure to the Detroit Tigers, Jazz Chisholm Jr. is expected to shift from third base to second. That leaves a glaring hole at the hot corner, and the Yankees might rely on struggling veteran DJ LeMahieu to fill it—despite mounting concerns over his decline.

LeMahieu’s Alarming Decline

LeMahieu had a disastrous 2024 season, slashing .201/.269/.259 with just two home runs in 67 games. Once known for his smooth bat control and contact skills, the former batting champion looked completely overmatched at the plate.

His struggles were so severe that some fear his six-year, $90 million contract (signed after 2021) could become a sunk cost if his performance continues to spiral.

But with two years remaining on his deal, can the Yankees really afford to keep trotting him out there if he’s this ineffective?

Why the Yankees Might Stick With Him

Yankees insider Chris Kirschner of The Athletic reported that LeMahieu still has the inside track for the starting job at third base—something he believes will backfire on the team.

“When camp opens, LeMahieu will be the odds-on favorite to be the Yankees’ Opening Day third baseman. It would appear to be a mistake based on recent history,” Kirschner wrote.

“The Yankees will point to the 36-year-old being a two-time batting champion, but he won both honors in 2016 and 2020. It’s irrelevant to what kind of hitter he is in 2025.”

Can Anyone Stop This From Happening?

Two people can prevent this potential disaster from unfolding:

• GM Brian Cashman: He could find a better replacement via trade or free agency.
• Manager Aaron Boone: He could try different players at third base during Spring Training instead of locking in LeMahieu.

Yankees Fans Expect Better

If LeMahieu struggles again in 2025, Yankees fans will undoubtedly hold Cashman and Boone accountable for failing to address the issue.

With championship expectations and an otherwise formidable lineup, New York cannot afford a major liability at third base. Whether the Yankees roll the dice on LeMahieu or finally seek an upgrade could make or break their World Series aspirations this season.