New Yankees Rumors Update Paul DeJong Buzz Ahead of Contract Opt-Out Date

Veteran shortstop Paul DeJong has reportedly informed the New York Yankees that he will opt out of his contract at the end of April if he isn't promoted to the Big Leagues, per Jon Heyman of the New York Post.

The Yankees signed him to a minor league deal this offseason that included an invite to Spring Training, ostensibly to compete for a utility infielder role. In 22 games at the Triple-A level this season he's hitting .213 with six homers, 13 RBI, nine runs and a .900 OPS.

Anthony Volpe's return could be imminent, however, creating a roster crunch in the infield that may make it unlikely DeJong gets called up. That makes an opt-out the likely outcome here.

DeJong debuted for the St. Louis Cardinals in 2017, spending the first six-plus years of his career with the club. The 32-year-old has appeared in the majors with six teams since 2023, most recently playing 57 games for the Washington Nationals in 2025.

DeJong is a career .229/.294/.416 hitter.