What Happened
On July 25, 2025, the New York Yankees announced the acquisition of third baseman Ryan McMahon from the Colorado Rockies in exchange for minor league pitchers Griffin Herring and Josh Grosz. This trade comes as the Yankees sought to address significant struggles at the third base position, where they have seen subpar offensive production throughout the season. McMahon, a 30-year-old All-Star in 2024, was activated to the Yankees’ roster shortly after the trade and is expected to provide both offensive and defensive support.
The Yankees are taking on McMahon’s contract, which includes approximately $4.5 million for the remainder of the 2025 season and $32 million over the next two years. McMahon’s performance this season has been mixed, with a batting average of .217, 16 home runs, and a .717 OPS, but he has shown improvement in recent weeks. His defensive capabilities, highlighted by a Gold Glove-caliber status, are seen as a critical addition to a Yankees team that has struggled with errors and defensive lapses.
Key Details
- Trade Details: Yankees receive Ryan McMahon; Rockies receive minor league pitchers Griffin Herring and Josh Grosz.
- Contract: McMahon is under contract for approximately $4.5 million for the remainder of the 2025 season and $32 million for the 2026 and 2027 seasons.
- Performance: McMahon has a .217 batting average, 16 home runs, and a .717 OPS in 100 games this season. He leads the National League with 127 strikeouts.
- Defensive Metrics: McMahon is noted for his defensive prowess, ranking in the 91st percentile with four Outs Above Average, making him one of the top defensive third basemen in the league.
- Yankees’ Needs: The Yankees have struggled offensively at third base, with their previous player, Oswald 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. Some view McMahon as a solid addition who can stabilize the Yankees’ infield, particularly given his defensive skills and potential for improved offensive output. Yankees manager Aaron Boone expressed optimism about McMahon’s ability to thrive in New York, stating, “He is a presence and can really defend over there at third base for a number of years. We’re excited to get him.”
Conversely, others highlight McMahon’s inconsistent offensive performance, noting that he has never had a season rated as league average in wRC+ despite playing in a hitter-friendly environment at Coors Field. Critics argue that while McMahon’s defense is a significant asset, his offensive struggles could limit his overall impact on the Yankees’ lineup. Additionally, some analysts suggest that the Yankees may have overpaid by giving up two young pitching prospects who could develop into valuable players.
Context & Background
The trade comes at a crucial time for the Yankees, who are aiming to remain competitive in the playoff race. The team has faced challenges this season, including injuries and underperformance from key players. McMahon’s addition is seen as a necessary step to improve their chances of success as they pursue a postseason berth.
The Rockies, on the other hand, are in a rebuilding phase, having struggled significantly this season with a record of 26-76. General manager Bill Schmidt indicated that the trade aligns with the team’s focus on building for the future, emphasizing the potential of the young pitchers acquired in the deal. This trade marks a notable shift for the Rockies, who have been criticized for holding onto players too long in previous seasons.
What We Don’t Know Yet
While the immediate impact of McMahon on the Yankees is anticipated, it remains to be seen how effectively he will adapt to the pressures of playing in New York and whether he can sustain his recent offensive improvements. Additionally, the long-term implications of the trade for both teams will depend on the development of Herring and Grosz, whose potential contributions to the Rockies’ pitching staff are yet to be realized.
Furthermore, the Yankees’ plans for additional trades or roster adjustments leading up to the trade deadline remain uncertain. With McMahon now in the fold, the Yankees may look to bolster their pitching staff, but specific targets and strategies have not been publicly disclosed. The effectiveness of this trade will ultimately be evaluated based on McMahon’s performance in the coming months and the development of the prospects traded to Colorado.
