Since joining the New York Yankees two years ago, DJ LeMahieu has arguably been one of the best players in the MLB. However, LeMahieu’s contract expires this offseason, and the Yankees could risk losing him.
LeMahieu has showed his love for New York and expressed his interest in returning, but in the end, money talks. For the Yankees to have the best chance to retain LeMahieu for the 2021 season and beyond, they need to give him a blank check.
With how invaluable LeMahieu’s been for the Yankees, the team can’t afford to let him walk. The Yankees need to let LeMahieu dictate how much money he wants and for how long, and give it to him.
LeMahieu was an MVP candidate in 2019, ultimately finishing fourth in voting. He hit 26 home runs, drove in 102 runs, and finished second in the batting average race.
The 32-year-old followed-up his 2019 performance with a batting title, 10 home runs, and 27 RBI in a shortened 2020 season.
LeMahieu is also a fantastic defender, winning three gold gloves in his time with the Rockies. Although he hasn’t won a gold glove yet as a Yankee, one could be coming in 2020. He can also play first and third base in addition to second, and could play shortstop in an emergency. In his short time in New York, LeMahieu has became a face of the franchise and developed into a leader.
DJ LeMahieu does so much for the Yankees, and the team can’t let him a walk. Giving him a blank check would almost certainly retain him, but the question is, will the Yankees give that to him? They already have a high payroll, and LeMahieu’s salary could be close to $20 million a year if he stays. But, for what he provides, a high salary is absolutely worth it.