Spring training officially went underway at the New York Yankees’ training facility in Tampa on Wednesday. Catchers and pitchers reported first, while the rest of the squad will join at a later date. Having said that, ahead of the Grapefruit League, skipper Aaron Boone addressed the media to weigh thoughts on pre-season preparations.
In a first, Aaron Boone broke the news of multiple injury concerns in the training camp. Jose Trevino and Scott Effross are likely to skip the first half of spring with respective injury setbacks. Additionally, Boone also revealed his ideal candidates for the leadoff position ahead of the 2024 season opening day.
Aaron Boone Wants DJ LeMahieu In Leadoff, But Open To Alternatives!
New York Yankees skipper Aaron Boone addressed a press conference on Wednesday ahead of spring training reporting day. He was asked to weigh thoughts on the hitting lineup and also who he envisions as an ideal leadoff hitter. Boone responded in a heartbeat that he wants DJ LeMahieu to continue with the leadoff role. DJ has been the Yanks leadoff hitter for a while now. But the 2023 season was cruel to the veteran infielder. He finished the year with a career-low .243 batting average and could only hammer 15 home runs in 136 games. That being said, ahead of the 2024 season, the franchise leadership continues to shower faith and trust in the veteran to produce a major turnaround. Notably, Boone added that he is open to options in case DJ underperforms.
Aaron Boone added that in case DJ LeMahieu witnesses a grave slump, Alex Verdugo is a viable alternative for the leadoff position. Also, the skipper feels that the leadoff spot is the base of a successful offensive lineup. If the leadoff hitter is settled, the Yanks rest of the formidable hitting lineup can be special this year, says Boone. “I do feel like the middle of the lineup around Aaron and Juan has a chance to be deep and special,” said Boone. DJ LeMahieu will likely claim the leadoff spot for the upcoming season. The club has a lot of faith in it’s veterans. Thus, this season would be no different. However, LeMahieu has to maintain consistency to sustain the prized spot. DJ is definitely capable of handling offensive duties at the top. He just needs a little push to break through the 2023 season shackles and rediscover his old dominant self.
Aaron Boone Sends Stern Message To Yankees Fans Ahead Of Opening Day!
The New York Yankees officially kicked off their 2024 season campaign with spring training on Wednesday. As the boys trained on George Steinbrenner field, skipper Aaron Boone stepped into the media room to address a pre-season press conference.
Aaron Boone was in a pleasant mood and sent a promising message to the passionate Yankee fanbase. “We are hell-bent on being a champion,” said Boone. The New York Yankees have witnessed a championship drought for the past 14 years. Therefore, ahead of a fresh season, the manager is pumped up more than ever to make a difference.
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