Former New York Yankees All-Star infielder DJ LeMahieu has announced a change in his career.
LeMahieu was released by the Yankees in July of 2025, and he hadn’t signed with a team since. After failing to land a contract this offseason, it appears LeMahieu’s playing days are over, and he’s getting into coaching.
On Wednesday, the Royal Oak Leprechauns announced LeMahieu will serve as field manager for the club during the 2026 Northwoods League season. The club also noted that LeMahieu is stepping into the dugout in Royal Oak while continuing to pursue opportunities in professional baseball.
“DJ has been hands-on throughout the entire offseason, and that’s meant everything to our staff,” said General Manager Danny Weiss. “As he steps into the field manager role, that same commitment carries over to the players he leads. He cares deeply about building a culture players want to be part of — and that’s going to set the standard for everything we do in 2026 and beyond.”
The Royal Oak Leprechauns are members of the Northwoods League, a leading summer collegiate baseball organization in North America, and are in Royal Oak, Michigan. LeMahieu will help manage the players and get them ready for professional careers, as the veteran infielder looks to continue his pro career as well.
LeMahieu is a three-time MLB All-Star and played for the Yankees from 2019 until 2025. He also played for the Chicago Cubs and Colorado Rockies.
LeMahieu Thanks Yankees Organization
Although New York opted to release LeMahieu last season due to his struggles, he’s still grateful for his time in the Bronx.
Last week, LeMahieu took to Instagram to send a message of thanks to the Yankees for six years in New York.
“I know it’s been a minute but just want to make sure I say thank you to the Yankees organization, all of the fans and my teammates for my time in New York. I may have been three years shy of being a true “New Yorker,” but New York will forever feel like home. I’m thankful to have been a part of some incredible moments on the field. Hoping for continued success for the boys! – DJ,” LeMahieu wrote on Instagram.
On his post, the Yankees’ official account commented and thanked LeMahieu for everything.
“Thank you, DJ. An incredible teammate on and off the field! Wishing you all the best,” the Yankees account commented.
LeMahieu signed a six-year, $90 million deal with the Yankees in 2021. At the time of his release, the Yankees owed LeMahieu roughly $21.6 million, including his full $15 million salary for 2026.
Fans React to LeMahieu’s News
After the news that LeMahieu is set to coach, Yankees fans took to social media and expect the veteran infielder to do well.
“It was either that or becoming a TV color commentator. He made the right choice,” a fan wrote.
“Hell yeah man, he’s going to be great,” a fan added.
“That’s awesome. He’s gonna be a hitting coach in the Yankees organization by 2030,” a fan added.
LeMahieu has been around baseball for decades, so many expect him to have success.
“Congrats DJ! Leprechauns lucky to get the great DJ as Manager,” a fan wrote.
“He’s gonna manage them to a perfect season,” a fan added.
“He’ll be a good manager. Great role model and the ultimate professional for young players to follow,” a fan wrote.
LeMahieu is a four-time Gold Glove Award winner and two-time Silver Slugger Award winner.
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