What's Happening?
The New York Yankees have signed former All-Star Paul DeJong to a minor league contract, which includes an invitation to major league spring training. DeJong, a 32-year-old infielder, is known for his
versatility, having played shortstop, third base, second base, and first base in recent seasons. He spent the best years of his career with the St. Louis Cardinals from 2017 to 2023, before playing for the Washington Nationals in 2025, where he posted a .642 OPS in 57 games. The Yankees are looking to enhance their infield options, especially with utilityman José Caballero expected to start at shortstop while Anthony Volpe recovers from shoulder surgery. The team has also re-signed Amed Rosario for infield flexibility and is focused on re-signing Cody Bellinger as a top offseason priority.
Why It's Important?
This signing is significant for the Yankees as they aim to strengthen their infield depth and maintain competitive flexibility. DeJong's experience and ability to play multiple positions provide the Yankees with a reliable backup option, which is crucial given the current injury to Anthony Volpe. The move reflects the Yankees' strategy to build a robust roster capable of handling injuries and maintaining performance throughout the season. Additionally, the signing of DeJong, along with the re-signing of Amed Rosario, indicates the Yankees' commitment to ensuring they have versatile players who can adapt to various roles as needed. This approach could be pivotal in their pursuit of a successful season.
What's Next?
The Yankees will continue to evaluate their roster during spring training, where DeJong will have the opportunity to compete for a spot on the team. The focus will remain on re-signing Cody Bellinger, which is a key priority for the Yankees this offseason. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, they will likely continue to explore additional moves to enhance their roster. The performance of players like DeJong during spring training will be critical in determining the final composition of the team and their readiness for the regular season.
