NEW YORK — No one could have predicted this moment of resolution. DJ LeMahieu — once a symbol of grit, versatility and steel in the Bronx — has been officially placed on the DFA (Designated for Assignment) list by the New York Yankees in a surprising but cold decision. The journey of a quiet warrior Comes to an end, with his desire to fight still strong.
“I fought until the end. But sometimes the numbers and the math are bigger than the heart,” LeMahieu said in a brief but heavy-handed statement after the news that he could be cut from the starting lineup.
LeMahieu was once the soul of the Yankees, the “LeMachine” of the Bronx — but the 2025 season has seen a worrying peace. His rating dropped to .266, his defense was no longer golden, and with the strong return of Jazz Chisholm Jr., LeMahieu’s position was gradually replaced.
Despite trying to play in the battle versions and inviting backup players, LeMahieu still could not stand in the tactical lineup. And in the end, the Yankees organization had to make a difficult decision.
“It was not an easy decision. DJ is a great teammate, a role model. But we have to think about the future,” manager Aaron Boone said after a tense internal competition.
The decision comes with LeMahieu having more than $22 million left on his current contract, making it difficult to trade or release him. The Yankees have seven days to decide whether to trade, retain or make him a draftee.
The Legacy of a “Not in Vain Machine”
3× All-Star (2015, 2019, 2021)
4× Gold Glove, 2× Silver Glove
2× Batting Title — the only one in history to win this title in both the American and National League
15-year professional career, most notably with the Rockies and Yankees
LeMahieu is quiet, quiet. He is the personification of the definition. Although he is not the face of the media, he is always the silent heart of the Yankees lineup.
“He deserves a night of appreciation. Can’t let a warrior like that go quietly,” — one fan wrote on Twitter.
DJ LeMahieu may no longer be the Yankees’ tactical choice, but for Bronx fans, he will always be a symbol of loyalty, of the quiet ones who go out and fight to the end.
“When I leave the airport, I just want people to remember that I always play my best… No matter where I am,” — LeMahieu said.