TORONTO — After the Yankees danced with Manny Machado and couldn’t reach a deal with the free-agent infielder, they opted to spread their cash around.
Instead of signing the very talented Machado and absorb the baggage that comes with him, the Yankees brought back free agents CC Sabathia, J.A. Happ, Zack Britton and added Adam Ottavino and DJ LeMahieu through free agency.
All have contributed to the Yankees being atop the AL East two months into the season, but none has been more valuable than LeMahieu.
Signed to play second, third and possibly first, LeMahieu has turned into the Yankees’ MVP with his clutch hitting and solid defense at second and third.