Yankees Acquire Ryan McMahon in Trade With Rockies to Bolster Infield Stability

In a pivotal trade that could shape the remainder of their 2025 season, the New York Yankees have acquired third baseman Ryan McMahon from the Colorado Rockies, filling a pressing gap at the hot corner. The deal, announced Friday, sends pitching prospects Griffin Herring and Josh Grosz to Colorado. McMahon, 30, is under contract through the 2027 season, making him a long-term asset rather than a rental.

McMahon had been one of the most talked-about infield targets on the market, and for good reason. While hitting .217/.314/.403 with 16 home runs through 100 games this season, his consistent OPS+ in the 90–100 range highlights his reliability. Though 2025 has been a statistical dip for McMahon, the Yankees are betting on his defensive consistency and offensive upside.

Why Ryan McMahon Was a Top Trade Target

Ryan McMahon‘s combination of power and defense makes him an ideal fit for a Yankees team in need of third-base stability. With DJ LeMahieu released and Jazz Chisholm Jr. returning to second base, New York has been scrambling at third. Temporary fill-ins like Oswald Peraza and Jorbit Vivas couldn’t quite anchor the position.

By acquiring McMahon, the Yankees gain:

• A proven MLB infielder with a strong defensive track record

• A left-handed bat that balances their right-heavy lineup

• Contract control through 2027 at $16 million per year after 2025

What the Yankees Gave Up: Griffin Herring and Josh Grosz

The price for McMahon wasn’t low. New York dealt two of its better prospects:

• Griffin Herring: A 22-year-old lefty drafted in the 6th round, with a 1.71 ERA and strong strikeout-to-walk metrics across 16 starts this season. He was recently ranked the Yankees’ No. 8 prospect by MLB Pipeline.

• Josh Grosz: Also 22, Grosz posted a 4.14 ERA in High-A with solid command numbers. He was ranked No. 21 in the Yankees’ farm system.

These arms should help a rebuilding Rockies club looking to shore up future pitching depth.

Long-Term Impact for the Yankees

This isn’t just a 2025 patch. With Ryan McMahon locked in for the next two seasons beyond this one, New York sees him as part of a longer-term plan. They’ve been aggressive in recent seasons, and this trade is another sign that general manager Brian Cashman isn’t done trying to reshape the infield.

Expect McMahon to bat in the lower-middle of the order, provide Gold Glove-caliber defense, and serve as a stabilizing force on a team looking to return to October.

How This Trade Impacts the AL East Race

The Yankees, currently 4.5 games back in the American League East, are chasing consistency in both pitching and hitting. This move won’t make headlines like a blockbuster for a slugger might—but it addresses a tangible need. And come September, solid defense and smart base hits from a guy like McMahon can be the difference between playoff baseball and another early offseason.

With Ryan McMahon joining the Yankees, the team gains both defensive reliability and long-term flexibility as they aim to close the gap in the AL East.

You Must Know:

Is Ryan McMahon under contract beyond 2025?
Yes, McMahon is signed through the 2027 MLB season, earning $16 million annually after 2025.

Why did the Yankees trade for Ryan McMahon?
The Yankees needed a reliable third baseman after releasing DJ LeMahieu. McMahon offers long-term consistency and strong defense.

Who did the Yankees give up for McMahon?
The Yankees traded Griffin Herring (No. 8 prospect) and Josh Grosz (No. 21 prospect), both promising young pitchers.

How has McMahon performed this season?
He has hit .217/.314/.403 with 16 homers and a 92 OPS+ across 100 games in 2025.

What position will Ryan McMahon play for the Yankees?
McMahon will slot in as the starting third baseman for the Yankees, bringing stability to the infield.

What are the Yankees’ current playoff chances?
With McMahon’s addition, the Yankees hope to close a 4.5-game deficit in the AL East and contend for a Wild Card spot.