DJ LeMahieu has once again created headlines in The Yankees circle, but not for the reasons you’re hoping for. The All-Star infielder’s continued struggles have raised lasting worries about his role in the team’s future. The spring training has just begun, but insiders are already questioning whether or not he still belongs at third base or, alternately, if it’s an hour for the Yankees to seek alternatives.

On an episode of “The Show” with Joel Sherman & Jon Heyman, the discussion around LeMahieu took the spotlight. Heyman came out candid while evaluating the current position of the veteran. He drew attention to a troubling WAR score in 2023 while also raising questions about his long-term prospects – if LeMahieu is still the right fit for the team’s position.

It’s worth noting that LeMahieu’s downfall isn’t just about the numbers, it’s also about availability. He was sidelined for substantial stretches because of his injuries. That’s why, it all became difficult for him to rebuild his All-Star form. But disregarding all that, Jon Heyman bluntly said, “He’s getting the back page, he’s all over the place… I mean, he had a -1.6 WAR last year. Is he really the third baseman? I mean, is that what you bet on?… I mean, he’s got a great career, but he hasn’t played for two years basically.”

A -1.6 WAR is not an easy pill to swallow. Especially for somebody who was once one of the Yankees’ most proven hitters. During the podcast, Heyman also made a suggestion that one of the Yankees’ younger options might be a better fit to take over the hot corner. Talk about leaving LeMahieu’s future with the Yankees in jeopardy.

We’re all aware that the Yankees’ cannot tolerate any lack of coherence at a key defensive position, particularly with the offensive firepower they have added in the offseason. Manager Aaron Boone and the Yankees’ front office will have to make a decision on whether LeMahieu’s battle-tested experience outmaneuvers his recent struggles or not. His incredible performance in previous years still holds value. But in a league which demands consistent results, nostalgia won’t do the job to secure his spot in the lineup.

The Yankees have key strengths, but does DJ LeMahieu add to them?

Even though the situation with LeMahieu is still hanging in the balance, the Yankees’ still have a championship caliber roster. Heyman expressed that the team boasts one of the best rotations in the American League, saying: “They do have the best rotation in their league. I think they pivoted well. They have a very good team and they’re the favorite in the American League despite all of my questions.”

While the Yankees’ rotation remains a strength, their infield depth is not settled yet. It’s safe to say that it’s far from settled. The front office might have to make tough mid-season decisions if the LeMahieu’s struggles persist. The team has evidently showcased their willingness to be aggressive in the past, as witnessed in their one-year-stint with Juan Soto in 2023. And if the third base persists a weak link, they might explore external options sooner or later.

Simultaneously, internal options such as Oswald Peraza or DJ LeMahieu remain their possibilities. Boone could go for a rotational system, balancing LeMahieu’s veteran presence with younger talent. But if LeMahieu wants to rebuild his place, he has to prove that he can still contribute both offensively and defensively at a greater level.

While the rotation of the Yankees’ is top-notch, their loaded relief staff is another factor to watch. Their relief staff has been challenged by injuries in previous seasons. Even though Clay Holmes holds down the closer role, the lead-up to him isn’t guaranteed. If key relievers stumble, the front office is likely to make in-season adjustments.

Nevertheless, if the Yankees’ are to lock into a win-win mode, each decision around their roster must align with their goals. It’s for us to see whether LeMahieu will prove himself and silence the critics or if the team moves to a new path.