Yankees’ Infield Dilemma: Evaluating DJ LeMahieu’s Future and the Potential of Josh Rojas

Yankees’ Infield Dilemma: Evaluating DJ LeMahieu’s Future and the Potential of Josh Rojas

In a recent report by Chris Kirschner of The Athletic, the New York Yankees appear open to 36-year-old DJ LeMahieu reclaiming an everyday starting role in 2025. While this idea might seem like a hopeful experiment at first glance, it raises significant concerns about the team’s ability to maintain or improve upon their recent performance.

 

 

 

 

For now, the Yankees’ leadership—both GM Brian Cashman and manager Aaron Boone—have not firmly committed to LeMahieu as a key player for the upcoming season. Their statements suggest a cautious optimism rather than a definitive plan, leaving plenty of room for alternative approaches as spring training looms.

 

 

 

 

One such alternative floated by Kirschner is free-agent infielder Josh Rojas. Could Rojas provide the Yankees with the defensive upgrade and positional flexibility they need?

 

 

 

The Case for Josh Rojas

Rojas, a versatile infielder, has had a tumultuous career trajectory. After being drafted in the 26th round by the Astros in 2017, he was traded to the Diamondbacks in 2019 and made his MLB debut later that year. While his early seasons were rocky, Rojas found his stride in 2021 and 2022, posting a solid .266/.345/.401 slash line and earning a 106 wRC+. However, his offensive performance has significantly declined over the past two seasons, with a mere 85 wRC+ and only 12 home runs across 248 games.

 

 

 

 

What sets Rojas apart, however, is his dramatic improvement on defense. Once among the worst infield defenders (-14 Outs Above Average in 2021-2022), he transformed into a defensive stalwart, accumulating 15 OAA between 2023 and 2024—a mark that ranks alongside elite defenders like Nolan Arenado and Matt Chapman.

 

 

 

 

Rojas’ offensive struggles remain a concern. His increased swing rate and reduced plate discipline have eroded his once-promising walk rate, limiting his ability to make consistent, impactful contact. However, when selective, he excels at squaring up pitches and avoiding chasing out of the zone, leaving some room for optimism.

 

 

 

 

Fit with the Yankees

A potential platoon with LeMahieu could be one way to maximize Rojas’ value. LeMahieu has historically hit left-handed pitchers well (112 wRC+ for his career), while Rojas struggles against southpaws but holds his own against right-handers (95 wRC+). However, the pairing still presents challenges, as neither player offers significant upside offensively.

 

 

 

 

Moreover, Rojas’ projected contributions in 2025 (1.2 fWAR) do not represent a clear upgrade over internal options like Oswaldo Cabrera. While his elite defense could provide a boost, his bat likely limits his overall impact, particularly when compared to higher-tier free agents still on the market.

 

 

 

The Bigger Picture

The Yankees’ interest in Rojas reflects a broader reality: the scarcity of viable infield options late in the offseason. Players like Rojas, who were non-tendered despite multiple years of team control, are inherently risky acquisitions. Yet, with the Yankees prioritizing defense under their revamped front-office strategy, it wouldn’t be surprising to see them explore Rojas as a potential depth piece.

 

 

 

 

Ultimately, the Yankees must carefully weigh their options, ensuring that their infield decisions not only address immediate needs but also align with their long-term goals. Whether LeMahieu can bounce back or Rojas can rediscover his offensive potential, the Yankees’ path to success in 2025 hinges on making the right call.