The New York Yankees have a third base problem this spring and Oswald Peraza, Oswaldo Cabrera, and now DJ LeMahieu are all in the mix for the job. As the competition heats up, the Yankees have to decide who will be manning the hot corner for 2025.
Peraza is Ahead of Cabrera
Through the early days of spring training, Oswald Peraza has quietly put himself in the lead for the job at third base. He’s been solid .333/.400/.333 with a few singles. Meanwhile Oswaldo Cabrera has struggled .167/.167/.417 with one home run.
Why Peraza’s Situation is Critical
Peraza is out of options so if he doesn’t make the team he’ll be designated for assignment. That would likely mean he’d be claimed off waivers by another team. The stakes are high for Peraza and he’s responding with urgency, making the most of every opportunity this spring.
LeMahieu’s Uphill Climb
DJ LeMahieu being back in action doesn’t necessarily mean he’s back in the mix for the 3rd Base job—at least not yet. The 36 year old infielder has declined the last two seasons and is late to spring training so he’s behind Peraza and Cabrera in terms of readiness.
Even at his peak LeMahieu’s bat speed and offense was declining so he’s better suited for a rotational role rather than an everyday starter. If he can’t get his offense going quick it’s unlikely he’ll push Peraza or Cabrera out of the picture.
Could the Yankees Look Elsewhere?
If neither Peraza nor Cabrera can provide consistent offense at 3B the Yankees may have to look outside. The organization didn’t spend much this offseason but a lack of production at 3B could make an upgrade a necessity rather than a luxury.
For now it’s internal only with Peraza ahead of Cabrera but with LeMahieu in the mix the dynamics of the competition could change again as the Yankees figure out their best options heading into the season.
FAQs About the Yankees’ 3rd Base Battle
Who’s in the lead?
Oswald Peraza is ahead of Oswaldo Cabrera so far this spring but DJ LeMahieu’s back in the mix.
Can LeMahieu still get the job?
LeMahieu has experience but his late start to spring training and decline the last two seasons means he’s more likely to be a rotational player at 3B rather than an everyday starter.
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