Something’s brewing in the Bronx. The Yankees’ short-term deals and sneaky roster moves have been laying the groundwork for a major first base shake-up. And if you’ve been paying attention, you know one name’s been floating above all the noise: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Remember when he said he’d never wear Yankees pinstripes—even in the afterlife? Well, fast-forward to now, and that hard stance looks like it’s starting to crack. In baseball, “never” doesn’t always last forever.

As Guerrero inched closer to potential free agency, he started to rethink the idea of playing in the Bronx — and it sent shockwaves through the baseball world. The buzz only grew louder when the Yankees signed Paul Goldschmidt to a one-year deal. Since the Yankees didn’t lock Goldschmidt in long-term, the rumor mill went into overdrive, with many believing Guerrero could be a real possibility for New York. In the end, though, it never materialized.

He brings significant first base experience and infield versatility. At this point, the Yankees could use a face-of-the-lineup behind Aaron Judge in the longer run. All said and done, Munetaka Murakami ticks all the boxes for being a perfect fit for the Yankees.

With Guerrero taken off the trade market, the only way the Yankees can have star power at first base is by recruiting Murakami. Not to mention, the clock is ticking.

Yankees’ veteran hitter nears rehab assignment

The Yankees are finally so close to a roster boost, and they’ve been highly anticipating this one for a while now. After spending weeks on the sidelines, DJ LeMahieu is back with the Yankees. For now, he’ll be just observing. It’s too soon for him to be in a Yankees uniform already. On the brighter side, according to manager Aaron Boone, it’s not far off until we witness the two-time batting champ back in the lineup.

As per sources, he has joined the club in his hometown, Detroit. He will continue with his workouts under the Yankees’ training staff. If LeMahieu is able to pull it together without any setbacks, he will be starting a minor-league rehab assignment.

LeMahieu was sidelined due to a calf strain in mid-March during a spring training game. As a result, the strain delayed his start in the regular season. The Yankees have been very considerate about his recovery to avoid any lingering effects. Oswaldo Cabrera stepped up in his absence at third base and handled it all remarkably.

After LeMahieu’s comeback, the Yankees could use Cabrera as a versatile utility player. While Giancarlo Stanton still remains out, Cabrera will be a perfect fit as their right-handed bat.

This season turns out to be LeMahieu’s seventh season in pinstripes, but with his injury setbacks, he has spent a significant amount of time off the field. But the good news is the Yankees fans won’t have to wait too long to see him back on the field. Hopefully, we will see him in the Bronx by the end of April.