Astros Step Away from DJ LeMahieu Pursuit: Veteran Infielder’s Future Still Uncertain After Yankees Exit
The Houston Astros have officially decided against pursuing veteran infielder DJ LeMahieu, despite growing speculation that they might bring him in following his recent release from the New York Yankees. This marks a firm end to any short-lived hopes that the two-time batting champion would be donning an Astros uniform this season.
According to Astros insider Will Kunkel, Houston has closed the door on the possibility of signing LeMahieu. Kunkel, citing a reliable source, reported Saturday that “The Astros are NOT pursuing former Yankees infielder DJ LeMahieu.” This news puts an end to any rumors connecting the 36-year-old to Minute Maid Park.
LeMahieu entered free agency earlier this week after the Yankees designated him for assignment and subsequently released him, ending a seven-year tenure in the Bronx. During his time with New York, LeMahieu earned a reputation for being a reliable and professional hitter with a sure glove. He made a significant impact early in his Yankees career and was especially known for his calm demeanor, defensive flexibility, and contact-hitting prowess.
There was some logic behind the rumors linking him to Houston. The Astros are in a competitive position and could benefit from veteran infield depth as they continue their push for the postseason. LeMahieu, even at this stage in his career, still provides experience and versatility in the infield, which could have been useful for a team that’s dealt with its fair share of injuries and inconsistency this season.
However, the Astros appear to have weighed their options carefully and ultimately decided not to move forward. While no exact reason was given for the team’s decision, several possible factors could have influenced it. LeMahieu has been limited to only 45 games this season due to a mix of injuries, including a calf strain and ongoing hip problems that have persisted for multiple seasons. In those limited appearances, he’s posted a .266 batting average with just two home runs and an OPS of .674—not terrible numbers, but far from his All-Star form.
At 36, LeMahieu’s body has taken a toll from the physical grind of Major League Baseball. These nagging lower-body injuries have limited both his range in the field and his effectiveness at the plate. For a team like Houston that’s looking to inject energy and consistency into their lineup, the risk may have simply outweighed the reward.
Despite Houston bowing out, LeMahieu is not without suitors. Jon Morosi of MLB Network floated the Seattle Mariners as a potential fit, particularly because of their need for a right-handed bat to strengthen their infield rotation. Seattle, currently in the thick of the playoff race themselves, may have more room to take a flyer on a veteran like LeMahieu, especially if they can use him in a part-time or platoon role to protect him physically while maximizing his strengths.
Financially, LeMahieu’s situation is unique. Although he’s a free agent, the Yankees are still responsible for the remainder of his contract—approximately $22 million. That fact could work in LeMahieu’s favor when negotiating with interested teams, as his salary obligations have already been taken on by New York. Any team that signs him now would likely do so at a league-minimum deal, making him a low-risk acquisition.
The Yankees’ decision to cut ties with LeMahieu came as a surprise to some but also underscored their desire to reshape the roster. General manager Brian Cashman acknowledged that the move was made with the club’s long-term planning in mind. He cited LeMahieu’s declining performance and lack of defensive mobility as reasons for the decision. In essence, New York chose to make room for younger, more versatile players who better fit their evolving needs.
LeMahieu’s exit sparked emotional reactions within the Yankees organization, especially from players who had come to admire his professionalism. Star slugger Aaron Judge was one of the first to publicly commend his former teammate, describing LeMahieu as a “gamer” and someone who consistently set the tone for the rest of the locker room with his work ethic and quiet leadership.
While his prime playing years are likely behind him, LeMahieu still carries value as a respected veteran voice and situational player. His ability to play multiple infield positions—second base, third base, and even first base—gives him flexibility that could be appealing to a number of clubs looking for depth and leadership.
For the Astros, however, that combination doesn’t seem to be a priority at the moment. Houston may already feel confident in the players they have or could be holding out for other trade deadline opportunities that provide a better roster fit or greater long-term upside.
LeMahieu’s future now remains in limbo. As a free agent, he’s free to sign with any team, but time is of the essence. The regular season is well underway, and contenders will soon make decisions on what pieces they need for a deep postseason run. For teams like the Mariners or potentially others in the National League with depth concerns, LeMahieu offers a unique blend of experience and low cost.
Whether or not another team takes a chance on him, DJ LeMahieu’s long and decorated career speaks for itself. From his batting titles in both the American and National Leagues to his Gold Glove honors and respected presence in the clubhouse, he’s left a lasting mark on the game. While Houston may not be his next stop, his journey in baseball may still have a few chapters left to write.
In the meantime, fans of the Yankees, Astros, and baseball in general will watch closely to see where the veteran infielder lands—and whether he can recapture some of the form that made him one of the sport’s most consistent and beloved players just a few seasons ago.
