The New York Yankeesmade a trade on Monday with the Athletics, the team announced. The deal also led to a number of roster moves.
“The New York Yankees today announced that they have acquired infielder Max Schuemann from the Athletics in exchange for minor league right-handed pitcher Luis Burgos,” Yankees PR Dept. wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “To make room on the 40-man roster, the Yankees have designated OF Yanquiel Fernández for assignment. Additionally, the Yankees outrighted RHP Dom Hamel and INF Braden Shewmake off the Major League roster and onto the roster of Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Hamel and Shewmake have been invited to 2026 Major League spring training as non-roster invitees.”
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Schuemann, a versatile player who can help out in both the infield and outfield, was previously designated for assignment by the Athletics. The Athletics’ DFA decision led to Monday’s trade. With Schuemann on the roster, a position battle may be brewing with spring training beginning soon.
Yankees Acquire Max Schuemann
Athletics shortstop Max Schuemann (12) throws to first for an out against the Houston Astros during the seventh inning at Daikin Park.
The Yankees already have multiple versatile players on the roster. The Schuemann addition may place pressure on Amed Rosario and Oswaldo Cabrera, however. Rosario and Cabrera are candidates to make the big league roster, but Schuemann could challenge for a role in 2026.
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Schuemann is not known for his offensive prowess. In 234 big league games, he has recorded a .603 OPS. However, the 28-year-old is a quality defensive player.
Schuemann can play shortstop, second base, third base as well as any of the three outfield positions. He has primarily played in the infield, but Yankees manager Aaron Boone can move him around the diamond if necessary.
Schuemann checked in at the 84th percentile for fielding run value in 2025. His outs above average was ranked in the 95th percentile. The Yankees, meanwhile, happen to need better all-around defense.
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Schuemann’s bat won’t be the reason he makes the team. If he does end up in New York with the Yankees in 2026, it will be a result of his fielding prowess. His defense could prove to be crucial.
Rosario and Cabrera still have strong chances of making the team. Nevertheless, Max Schuemann should not be counted out. He will battle for a utility role this spring. Even if he doesn’t begin the season in MLB, Schuemann could receive an opportunity at some point during the ’26 campaign.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Feb 10, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.