Yankees Predicted to Replace Ryan McMahon with 20-Year-Old Top Prospect Before All-Star Break The New York Yankees are expected to make a significant roster move before the All-Star break, with reports suggesting they will call up their top infield prospect, George Lombard Jr., to replace Ryan McMahon at third base. This decision, predicted by Jim Bowden of The Athletic, would mark a bold shift in the team’s strategy as they aim to bolster their lineup for the second half of the season. McMahon, a trade-deadline acquisition last year, has struggled to establish himself as a consistent performer at the major league level. His struggles at third base have raised questions about his long-term role with the Yankees, prompting management to consider younger, more dynamic options. Lombard, a 20-year-old infielder, is seen as the ideal candidate to step into McMahon’s role, given his potential and recent performance in the minors. Lombard’s journey to the majors has been steady, with his minor league numbers showing promise. Last season, he posted a .235 batting average and a .748 OPS, while also demonstrating his speed as a base-stealer, tallying 39 steals in 2024 and 35 in 2025. His spring training performance, though not ideal—highlighted by a .179 batting average and a .717 OPS—has not deterred analysts from projecting him as a key contributor. Bowden’s prediction hinges on Lombard’s ability to translate his minor league success into a strong start in the majors. If he does, the Yankees could see a significant upgrade at third base, particularly as McMahon’s struggles continue. However, this move would come at a cost, as McMahon’s underperformance would represent a setback for a player the Yankees acquired in a trade last season.#yankees #all_star_break #ryan_mcmahon #george_lombard_jr #jim_bowden
