BREAKING: The Yankees Reveal a High-Stakes Gamble for Third Base Heading Into 2025 Spring Training

As the New York Yankees gear up for the 2025 season, the competition for the third base job is set to be the most high-stakes battle of spring training. With a mix of uncertainty and opportunity, manager Aaron Boone has indicated that the team will not pursue another infielder, instead allowing Oswaldo Cabrera, Oswald Peraza, and DJ LeMahieu to contend for the starting role. This decision is shaping up to be a critical gamble for the Yankees, with significant implications for both their infield depth and player futures.

LeMahieu’s Make-or-Break Moment
The Yankees’ faith in veteran DJ LeMahieu could hinge on a key spring performance. After a difficult 2024 season where he hit just .204/.269/.259 with two home runs and 26 RBIs, LeMahieu finds himself fighting for a roster spot. The 36-year-old two-time batting champion was sidelined by foot and hip issues last year, and his struggles at the plate raised concerns about his bat speed and overall health. Yet, despite these red flags, Boone remains hopeful, stating that LeMahieu has a role on the roster, whether as an everyday player or in a platoon situation.

“Whether it’s an everyday level or against a lefty, I do think there’s a role for him,” Boone said. “I think it’s just going to be depending on his health.”

LeMahieu is owed $30 million over the next two years, and while rumors have circulated about a potential release, the Yankees have shown a history of sticking with veterans owed significant money. This spring, LeMahieu must prove he can return to form to solidify his place in the lineup.

Peraza’s Struggle for a Spot
Oswald Peraza, who was expected to be the Yankees’ shortstop of the future, enters spring training without the same security. After losing the shortstop job to Anthony Volpe last season, Peraza struggled both in the big leagues and the minors. With a .191/.267/.272 slash line in 52 MLB games last year and a modest .246/.311/.410 line at Triple-A, the pressure is on for Peraza to show he can handle an everyday role at third base. However, his lack of options at the minor league level makes him a candidate for a trade rather than a guaranteed roster spot. The stakes couldn’t be higher for the young infielder—his future with the Yankees could be decided in the next few weeks.

Cabrera: The Safety Net?
Oswaldo Cabrera, who has proven his value as a versatile utility man, might ultimately be the Yankees’ best option at third base—if LeMahieu or Peraza falter. While the team prefers to keep Cabrera in a utility role, he may be called upon to take over the position if the competition doesn’t pan out. Cabrera’s ability to play multiple spots could prove invaluable as the Yankees weigh their options for a regular third baseman.

A Gamble with Big Consequences
With the Yankees opting not to pursue additional infield help, the competition between Cabrera, Peraza, and LeMahieu will be a make-or-break situation.

The decision to rely on these three players creates high stakes for the team, as it could determine the balance of their infield for the season. LeMahieu’s health, Peraza’s development, and Cabrera’s versatility will all play pivotal roles in determining the starting third baseman for 2025.

As spring training gets underway, the Yankees’ third base situation is sure to be one of the most closely watched storylines. With so much on the line, the team’s gamble could either pay off or leave them scrambling for a solution come opening day.