New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman has once again showcased why he’s regarded as one of baseball’s top GMs this offseason.
After missing out on the Juan Soto sweepstakes last month, Cashman bounced back with strategic trades and signings that have positioned the Yankees as a stronger team on paper compared to last season.
However, questions remain, particularly regarding certain gaps in the roster that may need addressing before Opening Day. One such concern was highlighted by The Athletic’s MLB insider Jim Bowden in a January 10 article.
“If they move Chisholm to second base, will third base production hold up with a potential platoon of DJ LeMahieu and Oswaldo Cabrera?” Bowden asked.
He noted that LeMahieu’s health issues and Cabrera’s utility player profile raise concerns. The Yankees are reportedly hesitant to pursue big-name free agents like Alex Bregman due to budget constraints and are wary of Nolan Arenado’s potential decline.
Despite this lingering roster question, Jim Bowden still awarded the Yankees an ‘A’ grade for their offseason moves.
If Bowden’s prediction holds and the Yankees opt not to pursue a high-profile addition at second base, the spotlight will shift to who earns the starting role on Opening Day—and how much patience the team will show before exploring trade options.
One thing is certain: if DJ LeMahieu can recapture the form that made him an MLB batting champion in 2020, the Yankees would solidify their status as a powerhouse heading into the season.
