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In a significant move on Sunday afternoon before their 1:35 PM game against the Tampa Bay Rays, the Yankees addressed their lineup’s underperformance. With 36-year-old DJ LeMahieu struggling significantly, boasting a batting average of just .177 with an on-base percentage of .270 and a slugging percentage of .202, changes were necessary to bolster the team’s lineup.
Yankees Initiate Key Lineup Changes
General Manager Brian Cashman is actively seeking to strengthen the team, particularly at third base, as the trade deadline looms just nine days away. The urgency is heightened by veteran Jon Berti’s recent setback in his recovery from an injury. Despite LeMahieu’s stellar defensive skills, his high ground ball rate of 58.8% has stifled the Yankees’ offensive capabilities, particularly affecting run production at the lower end of the batting order.
Oswaldo Cabrera Steps Up
The Yankees have opted to replace LeMahieu with Oswaldo Cabrera at third base. Although Cabrera is also experiencing a somewhat lackluster season with a batting line of .237/.286/.340 over 76 games, he represents an improvement over LeMahieu, with five home runs and 27 RBIs. His weighted runs created plus (wRC+) of 79 is below the MLB average but is still a step up from LeMahieu’s 56%.
Looking Towards the Trade Deadline
As the trade deadline approaches, the Yankees might consider making a significant move to further enhance their lineup. A potential target is Isaac Paredes from the Rays, whose addition could greatly benefit the Yankees’ infield.
Paredes is not only a capable lead-off hitter but also someone who could effectively set the stage for power hitters like Juan Soto and Aaron Judge. Meanwhile, DJ LeMahieu appears to be transitioning into a more depth-oriented role after 142 plate appearances this season without noticeable improvement.
