Overview
- Manager Aaron Boone characterized the shortstop reps as an experiment and said McMahon remains the primary third baseman.
- Anthony Volpe, recovering from postseason labrum surgery, will open on the injured list and has begun a hitting progression, with May viewed as the likelier return target even as he aims for late April.
- McMahon has logged just three major-league innings at shortstop, though he is regarded as an elite defender at third base by recent DRS and OAA metrics.
- If McMahon proves serviceable in short stints at shortstop, New York could avoid carrying a dedicated backup there and gain late-game options, influencing bench calls involving Amed Rosario, Jorbit Vivas or even Jasson Domínguez.
- Concurrently, McMahon has adopted a narrower batting stance after a high strikeout season, with Yankees coaches targeting improved contact and consistency.