DJ LeMahieu, who signed a six-year $90 million extension deal with the New York Yankees in 2021, witnessed a steep decline in performance at the leadoff spot. His downward trajectory hindered the team’s success, especially this season, where his struggles peaked in the literal sense.
After a foot injury delayed his debut by two months, DJ LeMahieu couldn’t score a single extra-base hit in 129 plate appearances. However, courtesy of the Yankees’ unwavering backing and a renewed sense of urgency, the veteran first baseman produced an awe-inspiring resurgence to shut down his critics and doubters once and for all.
DJ LeMahieu Encouraged After Mid-Season Resurgence
New York Yankees veteran infielder DJ. LeMahieu, known for his consistency at the plate, went through one of the most challenging periods of his career earlier in the season. He endured a foot injury sustained in spring training for two months before eventually hitting a long slump upon return. Moreover, with the Yank’s trade of Jazz Chisholm Jr, LeMahieu faced the threat of DFA. However, the veteran relished a moment of resurgence against the Phillies last week as he posted a six RBI night, including a grand slam. He followed it up with a walk-off hit last Sunday. Moreover, in Yank’s latest game against the Angels, LeMahieu went 2-for-4 on the night with an RBI single, double and lineout to deep centre.
DJ LeMahieu happened to be the New York Yankees’ only scorer for the night in an 8-2 defeat against the Angels. Having said that, the infielder shut down his critics with a powerful message in the post-game interview. “I know I got it. Just trying to get it out, I wasn’t really allowing myself to be myself,” LeMahieu said. He revealed going through adjustments in the last week really helped him break out of the prolonged slump. In the last four games, LeMahieu is 5-for-12 with nine RBI. His batting average went from .173 to .192. All these highs in a span of just seven days left the infielder truly encouraged. Having said that, LeMahieu has been moved from his usual third base spot following Chisholm’s arrival at the trade deadline. He continues to split time at first base with rookie Ben Rice. However, if he continues to maintain the momentum and consistency, he is likely to beat Rice to ear everyday starts.
New York Yankees Now Have The Best Record In MLB
After a prolonged period of frustration fuelled by a losing streak, the New York Yankees are back to winning ways. With a couple of series wins, the Bombers now have the best record (68-46) in MLB entering Thursday. Not only that, the team is tied to the Baltimore Orioles for first place in the AL-East division.
Needless to say, this crucial wins will solidify New York Yankees postseason quest significantly. The next seven weeks will determine the team’s true character. The group led by MVP candidate Aaron Judge will have to sustain the momentum to carry it forward and book a place in playoffs before the regular season concludes in September.
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