Yankees legend “the king of consistent hitting” Rejects Red Sox Contract Offer, Says He Won’t Turn His Back on New York Yankees
New York, NY
Veteran infielder DJ LeMahieu, a two-time batting champion and one of the most respected contact hitters of his era, has officially declined a contract offer from the Boston Red Sox, league sources tell ESPN. The 37-year-old, now a free agent after being released by the Yankees in July, is drawing significant interest around the league — but made it clear that joining New York’s fiercest rival is not an option. The decision immediately sent shockwaves through MLB front offices, prompting renewed speculation about where LeMahieu’s next chapter will unfold.
LeMahieu’s 2025 season was among the most difficult of his 13-year career. Limited to just 70 games due to lingering left calf and right hip injuries, he hit .210 with four home runs and 12 RBIs — a sharp drop from the consistency that once defined him. The Yankees designated him for assignment on July 10 and released him the next day, though they remain responsible for the $22 million left on his contract through 2026. Since then, LeMahieu has focused on rehab and conditioning in Arizona, and sources say he is expected to be fully healthy by Spring Training.
When the Red Sox approached LeMahieu with a one-year offer earlier this month, Boston believed it had a chance to add a veteran utility star with championship experience and elite versatility. But according to multiple people close to the negotiations, LeMahieu never seriously considered the proposal. In a rare, emotional response, he explained why he could not accept the offer: “THE YANKEES GAVE ME A CHANCE. THEY GAVE ME A HOME. JOIN THE BOSTON RED SOX JUST TO GO AGAINST THEM? NO. I WON'T BETRAY THAT TRUST — NOT EVEN FOR A SINGLE SNAP. THERE'S NO AMOUNT OF MONEY BIG ENOUGH TO MAKE ME TURN MY BACK ON THE PLACE I CALL HOME.” The statement quickly circulated among players and personnel, reinforcing the deep loyalty that has defined his career.
The decision leaves LeMahieu as one of the most intriguing veteran free agents remaining. Despite his struggles in 2025, teams around the league continue to value his defensive flexibility at first, second and third base, as well as his veteran presence in the clubhouse. Several contenders — including the Mets, Phillies, Mariners and Giants — are expected to explore one-year deals in the $2–3 million range, viewing him as a stabilizing utility presence who can still contribute when healthy. Front-office evaluators also note that his swing decisions, discipline and defensive IQ remain strong indicators of potential bounce-back value.
For now, LeMahieu is choosing patience over urgency. Those close to him describe a player who is “motivated, healthy, and determined” to prove he can still perform at a high level. Whether his future includes a reunion with the Yankees or a new chapter elsewhere, one thing is certain: LeMahieu will not compromise on loyalty or identity as he enters the final stretch of his career. As the offseason progresses, the veteran infielder remains one of the most respected names on the market — waiting for the right team, the right fit, and the right moment to step back onto an MLB field.
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