DJ LeMahieu, the New York Yankees’ oldest player, had a delayed start to the season due to a foot injury sustained in spring training. He spent whole two months in rehab before a setback in rehab assignment further delayed his reinstatement for two weeks.
Regardless, after much wait, DJ LeMahieu was reinstated into the Yankees lineup at no.9 last month. However, his form hasn’t met the desired expectations. And with latest upset against Boston Red Sox, the 35-year-old excepted that he is yet to find his groove this year after a forced delayed start to the season.
DJ LeMahieu Says He’s Physically Fine Amid Abysmal Form
DJ LeMahieu, the New York Yankees’ versatile infielder, is still searching for his consistent groove after a delayed start to the season. LeMahieu’s start to the season was hampered by a nagging foot injury that kept him off the field longer than anticipated. This delay has significantly affected his ability to find his rhythm both at the plate and in the field. Historically, LeMahieu has been an explosive leadoff hitter in the Yankees’ lineup, often providing key hits and defensive stability. However, the disruption to his preparation and game time has led to an uncharacteristic inconsistency in his performance. Since his return last month, the third baseman has had flashes of brilliance but has struggled to maintain the high standards he’s known for.
Entering Sunday, DJ LeMahieu was hitting .196 with no extra-base hits and a .498 OPS through 14 games. Even in Sunday’s tough 9-3 loss to the Red Sox, LeMahieu went 0-for-2 with a walk. However, brushing off form concerns, DJ affirmed that he is physically fine. “Kind of here, kind of there. But overall, I feel like I’m getting into a better and better spot,” DJ said.
His focus now is to see the ball, pick his areas, and connect swings. Additionally, the change in hitting order could also be an important factor behind DJ’s downward trend. He was demoted from leadoff hitter to all the way at no.9 as Anthony Volpe was delivering consistent base hits and walks. That being said, the Yankees management and coaching staff continue to show faith in LeMahieu. Manager Aaron Boone has reiterated the importance of LeMahieu to the team and believes that it’s only a matter of time before he finds his stride.
Yankees-Orioles To Battle It Out To Claim AL-East
The New York Yankees’ humiliating series loss against the Boston Red Sox has reduced the gap to the second-placed Baltimore Orioles in the AL East to just 1.5 games. The Yanks have been at the top for almost the better part of the year. However, the Red Sox loss has caused a major dent in their odds.
Now, in a battle of titans, the Yankees will clash with Orioles in a three-game series at Yankee Stadium starting from Monday. The winner will claim the AL-East supremacy momentarily. Notably, the Orioles are defending AL-East champions whereas the Yanks are on a rebound phase following postseason exit in 2023 MLB season.
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