Yankees Facing Roster Dilemma After Paul Dejong’s Decision

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Cole Hudson | Last updated Apr 27, 2026 6:47 PM ET

The New York Yankees are coming off a 7-4 loss to the Houston Astros, but still look strong as the top team in the American League East as they prepare to face the Texas Rangers. Third baseman Paul DeJong has created a tough decision for the organization, as he plans to opt out of his minor league contract at the end of the month if he is not promoted to the major league roster (h/t Jon Heyman of the New York Post).

He has been impressive in the Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, showing power at the plate, solid defense, and versatility at shortstop and third base. However, there is no clear spot for him on the roster.

That is further complicated by Jose Caballero’s return from a finger injury after filling in for Anthony Volpe, who is currently on a minor league rehab assignment after shoulder surgery in October 2025.

Paul DeJong gave the Yankees notice he’s planning to opt out at the end of the month if not promoted
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) April 27, 2026

Losing a valuable third baseman like DeJong would be difficult for the Yankees. With his path to the majors blocked by a healthy, high-performing infield and the return of Volpe, the team would likely lose key veteran depth. Even with a strong minor league season, he has posted a .213 batting average, a .359 on-base percentage, a .900 OPS, nine home runs, and 13 RBIs over 22 games.

Caballero has been excellent for the Yankees this season in place of Volpe. The 29-year-old has posted a .271 batting average, a .314 on-base percentage, and a .730 OPS, along with three home runs, 11 RBIs, and 11 stolen bases over 27 games.

A high-impact, versatile infielder and baserunner, he is known for elite speed, leading the majors with 44 stolen bases in 2024 and ranking in the 92nd percentile in baserunning value. The Yankees are pleased with his production and expect Volpe to return this week.

New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone © Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

DeJong has developed into a reliable third baseman in the major leagues. Drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 38th round of the 2014 MLB amateur draft and by the St. Louis Cardinals in the fourth round of the 2015 draft out of Illinois State University.

He debuted with the Cardinals in 2017, spending seven seasons with the club and earning an All-Star selection in 2019. Since 2023, he has played for several teams, including the Toronto Blue Jays, San Francisco Giants, Chicago White Sox, Kansas City Royals, and Washington Nationals , before joining the New York Yankees in 2026.

He is a one-time All-Star and finished second in Rookie of the Year voting. DeJong signed a minor league deal with New York on Jan. 4, 2026, with a $1 million salary if added.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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