Yankees: How a 60-Game Season Affects These Impending NYY Free Agents

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DJ LeMahieu of the New York Yankees. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) /

After signing a two-year, $24 million deal prior to last season, DJ LeMahieu quickly became a fan-favorite and arguably the team’s MVP of the 2019 season. In his first year with the Bombers, LeMahieu hit .327 with a career-high 26 HR, 102 RBI, 33 doubles and a 136 OPS+.

The middle infield depth for the Yankees is especially thin following the departure of Didi Gregorius. With Gleyber Torres presumably making the switch to shortstop, the only other internal options for second base are Tyler Wade and Thairo Estrada, both of whom have yet to prove their capability of being everyday players. In terms of free agents, there aren’t many viable candidates either.

Entering what will be his age-32 season, there’s no reason to believe LeMahieu can’t continue to produce from the leadoff spot in the Yankees highly potent lineup. Expect Cashman to make DJ a priority this winter, if not sooner.

How will LeMahieu fare in an abbreviated season? It’s safe to say that he’s practically slump-proof. In September, LeMahieu has an OPS of .749, his worst of any month. Meanwhile, in his best month, August, he owns an .802 OPS.

First 60 games of 2019: .314/.360/.459 – 7 HR, 41 RBI, 14 2B

Last 60 games of 2019: .321/.370/.538 – 14 HR, 38 RBI, 12 2B

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