What Happened
On July 25, 2025, the New York Yankees acquired third baseman Ryan McMahon from the Colorado Rockies in exchange for minor league pitchers Griffin Herring and Josh Grosz. The trade was finalized just ahead of the MLB trade deadline, addressing a critical need for the Yankees at the third base position, which had been a source of struggle for the team throughout the season. McMahon, a 30-year-old All-Star in 2024, was activated to the Yankees’ roster and made his debut for the team shortly after the trade.
The Yankees took on McMahon’s existing contract, which includes approximately $4.5 million for the remainder of the 2025 season and $32 million over the next two years. This financial commitment reflects the Yankees’ strategy to bolster their roster as they pursue a playoff run, particularly after a series of disappointing performances from their previous third basemen.
Key Details
- Trade Details: Yankees received Ryan McMahon; Rockies received LHP Griffin Herring and RHP Josh Grosz.
- Contract: McMahon is owed approximately $4.5 million for the remainder of 2025 and $32 million for the 2026 and 2027 seasons.
- Performance: In 2025, McMahon was batting .217 with 16 home runs and a .717 OPS in 100 games. He led the National League with 127 strikeouts. However, he had shown improvement in his performance post-All-Star break.
- Defensive Skills: McMahon is recognized as a Gold Glove-caliber defender, ranking third in the majors with four Outs Above Average this season.
- Previous Third Base Performance: The Yankees’ previous third basemen, particularly Oswald Peraza, struggled offensively, with Peraza posting a .147 batting average and a 24 wRC+, one of the lowest in MLB history.
Multiple Perspectives
Opinions on the trade vary among analysts and insiders. Supporters of the trade argue that McMahon’s defensive capabilities and potential for offensive improvement make him a valuable addition to the Yankees. Yankees manager Aaron Boone highlighted McMahon’s experience and presence, suggesting that he could thrive in a less pressurized environment compared to his time in Colorado, where he was expected to carry more of the offensive load.
Conversely, some analysts express caution regarding McMahon’s offensive consistency. While he has shown flashes of power, his overall offensive production has been below average throughout his career, particularly when playing away from Coors Field, a hitter-friendly environment. Critics point out that while McMahon may improve the Yankees’ defense, his offensive contributions may not significantly elevate the team’s performance.
The Rockies’ perspective emphasizes a shift towards rebuilding, with general manager Bill Schmidt noting the importance of acquiring young talent in Herring and Grosz. Both pitchers have shown promise in the minors, and the Rockies hope they can develop into impactful players at the major league level.
Context & Background
The trade comes at a pivotal moment for the Yankees, who are looking to rebound from a season marked by inconsistent play and injuries. The Yankees had recently released DJ LeMahieu, another former Rockies player, and moved Jazz Chisholm Jr. to second base, creating an urgent need for a reliable third baseman. McMahon’s acquisition is seen as a strategic move to stabilize the infield and improve overall team performance.
For the Rockies, trading McMahon represents a broader organizational strategy to pivot towards rebuilding after years of underperformance. The Rockies have struggled significantly this season, with a record of 26-76, and the trade signals a willingness to part with established players in favor of developing younger talent.
What We Don’t Know Yet
While the immediate implications of the trade are clear, several uncertainties remain. It is yet to be determined how McMahon will adapt to the Yankees’ environment and whether he can maintain or improve his offensive production away from Coors Field. Additionally, the long-term impact of the trade on both teams will depend on the development of Herring and Grosz, as well as McMahon’s performance over the next two seasons.
Furthermore, the Yankees are expected to continue seeking additional pitching help, and their next moves could significantly influence their playoff aspirations. The effectiveness of McMahon in filling the third base void will be closely monitored as the season progresses, particularly in the context of the Yankees’ overall performance and postseason goals.
