While some notable free agents have been signed, plenty of elite talent remains available on the open market. The group includes the likes of Trevor Bauer, DJ LeMahieu, J.T. Realmuto and George Springer, among others.
The Los Angeles Dodgers have been one of multiple teams with reported interest in LeMahieu, who is coming off another strong season with the New York Yankees. They are considered by many to be the frontrunner for LeMahieu, who reportedly is seeking a contract in the neighborhood of five years and $125 million.
In addition to the Dodgers and Yankees, the Toronto Blue Jays have been mentioned as a potential landing spot. Amid interest from other teams, the Yankees reportedly are determined to remain involved for LeMahieu, per Joel Sherman of the New York Post:
#Yankees inquired with the #Indians on the price for Lindor as a backup plan if they did not sign LeMahieu, but have remained committed to seeing it thru with LeMahieu even as other options — such as Lindor — come off the board.
— Joel Sherman (@Joelsherman1) January 7, 2021
The report came on the heels of the Mets completing a blockbuster trade with the Cleveland Indians to acquire Francisco Lindor and Carlos Carrasco. It was suggested the Yankees could have entered the picture, but they instead have their focus on LeMahieu’s free agency.
Despite contracting coronavirus (COVID-19) in July and also missing time because of a left thumb sprain, LeMahieu led the Yankees last season in batting average (.364), on-base percentage (.421) and total hits (71). He was second on the team with 10 doubles and 10 home runs, and third with 27 RBI.
An All-Star in 2019, LeMahieu hit a combined .336/.386/.536 with 43 doubles, 36 home runs and 129 RBI over the past two seasons with the Yankees. He was named to the All-MLB First Team and won a Silver Slugger in each of the past two seasons.
Dodgers interested in LeMahieu, but reportedly focused on Turner
Even with their ongoing interest in LeMahieu, the Dodgers are believed to prefer re-signing Justin Turner. They reportedly would like to do so on a two-year contract, which is half of what Turner is believe to be seeking.
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