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 comes as the Yankees sought to address a significant need at third base, a position where they have struggled offensively throughout the season. McMahon, a 30-year-old All-Star in 2024, has been noted for his defensive capabilities but has faced challenges with his offensive performance this year, batting .217 with 16 home runs and a .717 OPS in 100 games for the Rockies.
The Yankees assumed McMahon’s contract, which includes approximately $4.5 million for the remainder of the 2025 season and $32 million over the next two seasons. Following the trade, McMahon was activated to the Yankees’ roster and made his debut in the lineup against the Philadelphia Phillies.
Key Details
- Trade Participants: New York Yankees received Ryan McMahon; Colorado Rockies received pitching prospects Griffin Herring and Josh Grosz.
- Contract Details: McMahon is under contract for two more seasons, owed approximately $36.5 million in total.
- Performance Statistics: In 2025, McMahon has a batting average of .217, 16 home runs, and a .717 OPS, with a National League-leading 127 strikeouts. His defensive metrics show him as a Gold Glove-caliber player, ranking in the 91st percentile with four Outs Above Average.
- Yankees’ Third Base Situation: The Yankees have struggled at third base, receiving a .645 OPS from the position this season. Oswald Peraza, who has played most of the games there, has a dismal .147 batting average and a 24 wRC+, the second lowest among Yankees with significant plate appearances since 1961.
Multiple Perspectives
The acquisition of McMahon has garnered a mix of reactions. Supporters of the trade point to McMahon’s defensive prowess and potential for improvement in a new environment, particularly in Yankee Stadium, which may suit his left-handed swing. Yankees manager Aaron Boone expressed optimism about McMahon’s ability to contribute positively, 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, some analysts caution about McMahon’s offensive inconsistencies. Despite his strong defensive metrics, his offensive production has been below league average throughout his career, raising questions about his ability to perform under the pressure of playing in New York. Critics argue that while McMahon may be an upgrade over Peraza, he might not fulfill the Yankees’ hopes for a significant offensive contributor.
From the Rockies’ perspective, the trade represents a strategic move to focus on rebuilding. General Manager Bill Schmidt noted the importance of acquiring young talent in Herring and Grosz, who have shown promise in the minors. This trade marks a shift for the Rockies, who have historically been reluctant to make significant moves at the trade deadline.
Context & Background
The trade occurs against the backdrop of a challenging season for both teams. The Yankees, aiming for a playoff push, have faced difficulties in their infield, particularly at third base, following the release of DJ LeMahieu and the struggles of Peraza. McMahon’s addition is seen as a necessary step to stabilize the position and improve the team’s overall performance.
For the Rockies, the decision to trade McMahon reflects a broader strategy to rebuild and develop young talent. McMahon had been a key player for the Rockies since his debut in 2017, but with the team struggling significantly this season, currently holding a record of 26-76, the franchise is looking to the future. The trade of McMahon, a player with a substantial contract and a history of performance issues, signals a willingness to pivot towards a more sustainable model.
What We Don’t Know Yet
While the immediate implications of the trade are clear, several uncertainties remain. It is yet to be seen how McMahon will adapt to the Yankees’ environment and whether he can elevate his offensive performance away from Coors Field, where he has historically performed better. Additionally, the long-term impact of the trade on the Yankees’ playoff aspirations and the development of Herring and Grosz in the Rockies’ system remains to be evaluated.
Moreover, the Yankees’ plans for further trades or acquisitions to bolster their pitching staff, which has also faced challenges this season, are still unfolding. The organization may pursue additional moves before the trade deadline to enhance their chances for a successful postseason run.
