DJ LeMahieu has turned down the Yankees' $18.9 million qualifying offer for 2021 and has become a free agent.
Turning down the qualifying offer won’t officially end LeMahieu’s tenure with the Bombers, though, as he could sign a new contract with the team he’s suited up for the past two seasons, where he's established himself as one of the best overall hitters in baseball.
The 32-year-old won the AL batting title in 2020 with his .364 average, while earning his second-straight Silver Slugger award. He’s also a finalist for the AL MVP Award, a year after finishing fourth in MVP voting.
The Yankees, meanwhile, would love to retain LeMahieu’s services, as he’s provided a tremendously reliable bat at the top of the lineup, slashing .336/.386/.536 in his two seasons in the Bronx.
The Yanks have some interesting decisions to make along their infield this offseason, including deciding whether or not Gleyber Torres is a long-term fit at shortstop or better suited at another position, but re-signing LeMahieu would obviously be a huge boost.