Just when the Yankees were thought to be scanning the trade market for infield help, a familiar name is making noise — from their own dugout.
With the trade deadline fast approaching, speculation is flying about blockbuster moves and big-name acquisitions. But in the background, DJ LeMahieu, the veteran many had quietly counted out, is steadily making his case to stick around — and matter.
After two tough seasons that left fans wondering if his best days were behind him, the 36-year-old is showing signs of life. At the plate, he’s been quietly productive — hitting .258 with a .704 OPS through 62 at-bats. Those aren’t MVP numbers, but they’re respectable, especially paired with a solid walk rate (10.8%) and improved pitch selection. Add in his above-average metrics in exit velocity and swing decisions, and the picture gets clearer: DJ might just be heating up.
And it’s not just his bat. LeMahieu’s dependable defense at second base is helping the Yankees reshape their infield, freeing up Jazz Chisholm to man third more comfortably. He’s not chasing Gold Gloves anymore, but DJ is delivering the kind of quiet, reliable play that keeps a team’s engine running smoothly — and out of trouble.
If this resurgence continues, it could dramatically alter the Yankees’ approach to the trade deadline. Rather than scrambling to fill a hole at second base, Brian Cashman might focus on reinforcing the pitching staff instead. One veteran’s return to form could create a ripple effect across the roster.
Sure, it’s still early — 62 at-bats don’t write a full story — but in baseball, momentum and timing can be everything. LeMahieu isn’t just filling a spot. He’s making the case that he still belongs. And just maybe, he’s about to turn what looked like the end of his Yankees chapter into an unexpected encore.
