New York Yankees: Should the Yankees extend DJ LeMahieu?

New York Yankees, DJ LeMahieu
Jun 25, 2019; Bronx, NY, USA; New York Yankees second baseman DJ LeMahieu (26) rounds the bases after hitting a solo home run against the Toronto Blue Jays during the first inning at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

I think all New York Yankee fans can agree that DJ LeMahieu was one of the MVPs of the team last season. He was clearly one of the best hitters in all of the Major Leagues, as he earned his third trip to the All-Star game and earned his first silver slugger as well.

Finishing fourth in the MVP voting, many believe that he should have at least been a finalist. He finished second for batting average in the American League where he held a .327 average which was his fourth season during his nine-year career that he’s batted over .300.

LeMahieu is currently signed to a 2-year, $24 million dollar deal with the Yankees. After last season, the Yankees need to do whatever they can to keep him in pinstripes for an extended period. LeMahieu might want a lengthy contract considering how successful he is.

The New York Yankees should consider signing him to a three or four-year deal for around $45-50 million dollars. I understand that this is a lot of money considering they’re trying to land Gerrit Cole and/or Stephen Strasburg, but for someone like LeMahieu, it’s worth it.

Another thing to consider is the Yankees are going to eventually have to pay Aaron Judge, Gleyber Torres, and Gary Sanchez. These guys are all either still signed to their rookie contracts or at a baseline kind of contract.

LeMahieu is a player that the Yankees don’t really have anywhere else in their lineup. He’s a consistent contact hitter and seems to be hitting the ball hard every time he’s up at-bat. In 655 plate appearances last season, LeMahieu only fanned 90 times. With the Yankees’ high strikeout rate since they primarily rely on the long ball to produce runs, having a LeMahieu in the leadoff spot is so valuable.