Yankees: 2021 Replacements for DJ LeMahieu

1. Yankees Target: Didi Gregorius

Didi Gregorius could return to the New York Yankees after an abbreviated 2020 campaign in Philadelphia.

We know the Yankees’ marriage with Didi Gregorius works when the slugging infielder is fully healthy, so it would make perfect sense to reunite the Torres-Didi middle infield, if the need arises.

In this world, it seems likely the Yanks prioritized retaining Tanaka and/or Paxton, leaving limited funds left to patch up the infield. Gregorius, a victim of terrible timing, would fit right into this patchwork plan.

After a 2019 season where the affable shortstop was clearly never quite right after his Tommy John surgery rehab (though he still provided a key grand slam in Game 2 of the ALDS), the Yankees were more than willing to let him walk and sign a “prove it” one-year deal with Joe Girardi and the Phillies. Unfortunately, his attempt to prove himself has been halted by a global pandemic, and he likely won’t get any more than 82 games to let the world know he’s regained his skills.

Sadly, Gregorius’ services may come at a bargain this time next year, as he’ll still need another season of proving under his belt to earn a little more security. If New York lets LeMahieu depart, their once and future king could be a pretty solid backup plan (and might just satiate a few angry fans in the process, too).

That being said, let’s hope Gregorius takes off in Philly and prices himself out of town, and LeMahieu returns, keeping the whole unit together.