Yankees News: Who Will Play Third Base For New York?

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Post on May 17, 2025

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Yankees News: The Hot Corner Competition Heats Up – Who Will Play Third Base in 2024?

The New York Yankees' quest for a World Series title in 2024 hinges on several key factors, and one of the most crucial is solidifying the third base position. With the departure of Josh Donaldson and the uncertain future of several other internal options, the hot corner in the Bronx is wide open, sparking intense speculation and debate among fans and analysts alike. Who will emerge as the starting third baseman for the pinstripes next season? Let's break down the contenders.

The Internal Candidates: A Mix of Experience and Potential

While the Yankees could certainly pursue a free agent or trade acquisition, several players within the organization are vying for the starting role. This internal competition adds an exciting element to spring training and could lead to unexpected breakthroughs.

• DJ LeMahieu: A versatile veteran, LeMahieu has played third base in the past and could easily shift back. His batting prowess and defensive reliability make him a strong contender, though his age might limit his ability to handle the rigors of everyday play at third. His experience and leadership, however, make him a valuable asset regardless of his position.

• Oswald Peraza: The young infielder boasts impressive offensive potential and defensive skills. Peraza's performance in the minor leagues and limited major league appearances have shown flashes of brilliance, hinting at a potentially bright future. The upcoming season could be crucial in determining whether he's ready for a full-time starting role. His youth and upside are appealing, but his inexperience is a factor.

• Kyle Higashioka: Primarily a catcher, Higashioka's versatility could make him a surprise option in certain situations, but a full-time move to third base seems unlikely.

External Options: Free Agency and Trades

The Yankees are known for their willingness to make significant moves to bolster their roster. Several free agent and trade possibilities remain, adding further complexity to the third base picture.

• Free Agent Market: The free agency market could present some intriguing options, but securing a high-profile third baseman might require a substantial financial commitment. The Yankees' approach will depend on their assessment of the internal options and their overall budgetary considerations.

• Trade Possibilities: Trading for an established third baseman is another viable avenue. The Yankees' front office will undoubtedly explore all potential trade partners, weighing the costs and benefits of acquiring a player via trade versus free agency or relying on their internal options.

Predicting the Future: A Difficult Task

Ultimately, predicting who will ultimately win the starting third base job for the Yankees is challenging. The team's decisions will hinge on spring training performances, player development, and the overall strategic direction of the front office. One thing is certain: the competition for the starting third base position will be a key storyline to follow throughout the upcoming spring training and into the regular season. The Yankees' success, or lack thereof, at third base will play a significant role in their overall playoff contention.

Keywords: Yankees, New York Yankees, third base, MLB, baseball, Oswald Peraza, DJ LeMahieu, Kyle Higashioka, free agency, trade, spring training, 2024 season, hot corner, playoff contention.