The New York Yankees abruptly designated DJ LeMahieu for assignment the next day after eventually benching him. The ensuing action isn’t particularly startling because manager Aaron Boone was ruthless about the long-overdue decision to bench the veteran baseman. However, now that he has officially left Pinstripes, the question remains: Where will he go next?
Thanks to their third baseman and his previous longtime running buddy, Nolan Arenado, the St. Louis Cardinals have an easy link to LeMahieu. The two led the Colorado Rockies to their two most recent postseason berths during their six seasons together, from 2013 to 2018. But a 2025 postseason contender shouldn’t be attempting to replicate the success of ten years ago.
Cardinals signing DJ LeMahieu would give fans a reunion no one asked for
The Yankees have seven days to either trade DJ LeMahieu or place him on outright or unconditional release waivers. Given that he’s still owed \$22 million through 2026, it’s highly unlikely any team will willingly take on that contract. As a result, the three-time All-Star could soon be available as a free agent — but the Cardinals would be wise to pass, even on a low-risk deal.
Aaron Boone has openly acknowledged that LeMahieu is no longer physically capable of playing third base at this point in his career. And realistically, there’s no scenario where he’d displace Nolan Arenado — one of the best defensive third basemen of all time. Shifting him to second or first base isn’t feasible either, as those spots are already held by two of St. Louis’ top players: Brendan Donovan and Willson Contreras.
The Yankees clearly no longer believe in LeMahieu’s offensive value either. They’re willing to eat a large chunk of his salary just to free up a roster spot. It’s understandable — since the start of 2024, he’s slashing just .228/.295/.289 with four homers, 38 RBIs, and a weak .584 OPS over 329 at-bats, along with a -0.9 WAR.
If he can’t contribute with his glove or as a bat off the bench, what real value does LeMahieu offer beyond veteran presence? Bringing him to St. Louis would feel more like a nostalgic PR move than a decision aimed at winning baseball games. Sure, he and Arenado once thrived together in Colorado — but those days are long gone.