Yankees Add Max Schuemann as Versatile Backup with Speed and Defense

Updated: Feb. 09, 2026, 3:48 p.m. | Published: Feb. 09, 2026, 3:47 p.m.

The New York Yankees have bolstered their roster with another super utility player, adding Max Schuemann, an infielder/outfielder, from the Oakland Athletics. General Manager Brian Cashman made the move just two days before pitchers and catchers report for spring training in Tampa. The trade sent Dominican minor-league pitcher Luis Burgos to the Athletics in exchange for Schuemann, who brings depth to the Yankees’ already versatile roster.

At 28 years old, Schuemann isn’t known for his hitting prowess, but he offers a different skill set: speed, standout defense, and decent right-handed power. Over the past two seasons with the Athletics, Schuemann played a variety of positions, including second base, shortstop, third base, and the outfield. While his batting average has been modest, his defensive versatility and speed make him a valuable asset for New York.

Schuemann’s 2025 Season: A Look at His Numbers

In 2025, Schuemann played in 101 games, hitting .197 with two home runs, 13 RBIs, and seven stolen bases. His OPS was .568, but his defensive contributions were a highlight. Schuemann made 20 starts at second base, 11 at shortstop and third base, and four in the outfield, including one in center field. His defensive stats were impressive, with a plus-eight ranking in Outs Above Average (OAA), tying for 29th among 256 qualifying players. He was particularly strong at second base, where he was plus-five, and at third base, where he was plus-four.

Schuemann’s ability to fill multiple roles defensively, combined with his speed, positions him as a key backup option for the Yankees, capable of stepping in across the infield or outfield when needed.

Schuemann’s MLB Career So Far

In his MLB career, Schuemann is a .212 hitter with nine home runs, 47 RBIs, and 21 stolen bases across 579 at-bats. His strikeout total stands at 154, and he has an OPS of .603. He has played in 234 games and started 166 times, with appearances at five different positions. Schuemann’s journey through the majors has been marked by versatility and defensive reliability, and the Yankees hope his skill set will provide valuable depth to their roster as they aim for another championship run.

Competition for Roster Spots: Schuemann’s Path to Opening Day

Schuemann will likely compete for an Opening Day roster spot with Oswaldo Cabrera, another infielder/outfielder who missed much of last season due to a season-ending fractured left ankle. Cabrera is now healthy and could challenge Schuemann for playing time. Schuemann’s versatility, though, could give him an edge as a back-up to key players.

Additionally, Jose Caballero and Amed Rosario are expected to have season-opening roster spots, barring any injuries. Caballero is slated to be the Yankees’ starting shortstop, filling in for Anthony Volpe, who is recovering from left labrum surgery. Volpe is expected to miss at least the first part of the season, giving Caballero an opportunity to showcase his skills at the position.

Yankees Adjust 40-Man Roster for Schuemann

To make room for Schuemann on the 40-man roster, the Yankees designated outfielder Yanquiel Fernandez for assignment. The team also made several moves to adjust their roster depth. They outrighted Don Hamel, a right-handed pitcher, and Braden Shewmake, an infielder, from their 40-man roster but gave them both invites to big-league spring training.

Luis Burgos: A Look at the Yankees’ Trade Piece

The Yankees traded Luis Burgos, a 20-year-old Dominican minor-league pitcher, to the Athletics as part of the deal for Schuemann. Burgos has a 4-4 record with a 3.39 ERA in 25 games over his two minor-league seasons in the Dominican Summer League. In 79.2 innings, he has 71 strikeouts and 42 walks. In 2025, Burgos showed promise with a 2.44 ERA in 11 games, eight of which were as a starter. The 6-foot-2, 186-pounder will likely continue his development in the Athletics’ minor league system.

Conclusion: Schuemann Brings Versatility to the Yankees’ Depth Chart

The Yankees continue to strengthen their roster with versatile players like Max Schuemann, who can provide defensive reliability and flexibility across multiple positions. While his batting stats may not jump off the page, Schuemann’s ability to play effectively in a variety of roles gives manager Aaron Boone more options as the Yankees seek to contend for another World Series title.

As spring training approaches, Schuemann will aim to prove his worth as a back-up option capable of stepping up when needed. With Cabrera, Caballero, and others vying for playing time, the Yankees’ roster could see some exciting positional battles as the team prepares for the 2026 season. Schuemann’s addition provides the Yankees with more depth, and his defensive contributions will be critical as they look to make another push for the playoffs and beyond.