DJ LeMahieu Rumors: Blue Jays 'Significant Players' for Yankees FA; Mets Linked

Infielder DJ LeMahieu is one of the top free agents on the market this winter, and it's possible he could swap AL East addresses.

According to Jeff Passan of ESPN, the Toronto Blue Jays "have emerged as significant players in the LeMahieu sweepstakes—perhaps the biggest threat to him re-signing with the New York Yankees, with whom a significant gap remains." The New York Mets are also interested in the 32-year-old, per Passan.

LeMahieu, 32, had another excellent season in 2020, hitting .364 with 10 homers, 27 RBI and 41 runs in 50 games. He finished third in the MVP voting and was a Silver Slugger. 

The three-time All-Star and three-time Gold Glove award winner offers pop at the plate and versatility in the infield, making him one of the top free agents on the market alongside starting pitcher Trevor Bauer, catcher J.T. Realmuto and outfielder George Springer. 

For the Blue Jays, his signing would accomplish two things: Improve their infield and offense and weaken a divisional rival, the Yankees. He would likely slot in a third base for the Blue Jays, addressing one of the team's two biggest needs. 

Starting pitcher is the other, so if the Blue Jays ultimately emerge in the Bauer sweepstakes, it wouldn't be a shock. Passan added that the team could compete with the Yankees to sign Springer and could try to trade for star shortstop Francisco Lindor. 

So Toronto clearly wants to be a player this offseason. Given the young talent already on the roster and last season's playoff berth, it isn't surprising the team is considering going all-in.