Yankees Face Challenges at Third Base

{ "articleTitle": "Yankees Third Base Struggles Highlight Roster Uncertainties Ahead of Free Agency", "articleDescription": "The New York Yankees face significant roster decisions at third base following Ryan McMahon's underwhelming season and a three-game ALDS sweep by the Tampa Bay Rays. With multiple key players entering free agency, the organization must address production gaps while managing payroll constraints.", "articleBody": "

Postseason Exit and Roster Turnover

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The New York Yankees concluded their postseason run with a three-game American League Division Series sweep at the hands of the Tampa Bay Rays. The loss underscores immediate questions regarding roster construction as the team navigates a period of significant turnover in both its starting lineup and bullpen.

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Several key contributors are set to leave the organization. Closer David Bednar is entering free agency, though current reports predict the Yankees will issue him a qualifying offer. Injured pitcher Fernando Cruz is also a non-tender candidate. Additionally, first baseman Paul Blackburn is entering free agency, further thinning the available depth for the upcoming season.

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Offensive pieces are also in flux. Jazz Chisholm Jr. is a free agent who may end up elsewhere despite expressing a desire to stay in New York. If Chisholm departs, the Yankees have considered playing Luis Garcia Jr. at second base in place of him. Anthony Volpe has been identified as the next-best internal option for second base if Garcia remains at first base.

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McMahon's Offensive Decline and Defensive Concerns

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The primary focus of the Yankees' infield uncertainty lies at third base, where Ryan McMahon had a disappointing year. He batted .213/.279/.357 with a weighted runs created plus (wRC+) of 78 across 124 games. His strikeout rate of 29.4 percent ranked in the ninth percentile according to Statcast, and his walk rate dropped to a career-worst 7.8 percent.

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McMahon hit only 11 home runs this year, marking another career low for isolated power at .143. His overall fielding performance also drew scrutiny; he was valued at negative three Defensive Runs Saved and zero Outs Above Average at third base.

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The team's third base production of 74 wRC+ tied with the Miami Marlins for the fifth-worst in the league. McMahon’s fWAR was 0.5 this year, down from an average of 2.3 per year from 2021 through 2025.

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McMahon played in only 124 games this season due to a throat infection and a left thumb sprain, missing time for the first time in over seven years. Despite the statistical decline, McMahon is under contract for a $16 million guaranteed salary, which remains the seventh-highest on New York’s payroll.

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Payroll Implications and Contract Obligations

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The Yankees' financial flexibility is constrained by existing long-term commitments. Giancarlo Stanton is entering the final season of his 13-year, $325 million extension with a $25 million salary owed next year. The contract includes a $10 million buyout on a club option for 2028.

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The Miami Marlins are set to kick in $20 million toward Stanton’s guarantee, leaving the Yankees’ share at $15 million. If the Yankees retain Bednar via a qualifying offer or