DJ LeMahieu returning to the New York Yankees no longer seems like a foregone conclusion.
It always felt likely that the Yankees would re-sign the star utility man, who reportedly was New York's priority this offseason.
But with just over a month until pitchers and catchers report to spring training, LeMahieu remains a free agent, with the Toronto Blue Jays said to be hot on the trail.
And a new report turned heads Monday, with Yahoo! Sports reporting that the 32-year-old was frustrated with the Yankees and would consider other teams -- including the Boston Red Sox.
But in a roundtable on MLB.com, league insider Mark Feinsand projected LeMahieu would end up ... back with the Yankees.
As for the contract?
"Four years, $86 million, fifth-year option for $21 million ($8 million buyout). So $94 million total," Feinsand wrote.
Stranger things have happened, but LeMahieu staying in pinstripes does seem like the most likely outcome.