The New York Yankees kicked off the road series against Philadelphia Phillies, the team with the best record in majors, on a strong note with two big wins to seal the series. The offense rediscovered the lost spark, thus reigniting the postseason aspirations that were kind of lost in July.
Meanwhile, for the series finale, DJ LeMahieu, the New York Yankees struggling third baseman and probably the weakest link in offense, came alive to deliver his best outing of the season. He drove 6 runs in Yanks 6-5 victory over the Phillies, thus pulling off a dominating sweep over a dominant opponent.
DJ LeMahieu Hits Grand Slam In Yankees 6-5 Over Phillies
In what turned out to be a DJ LeMahieu solo show on Wednesday, the New York Yankees swept the Philadelphia Phillies by taking over a 6-5 victory in the finale. The Yanks slumping veteran third baseman, who entered the game with just two hits and three walks in his previous 37 plate appearances, hit a grand slam in the second inning off Phillies starter Christopher Sanchez to avail 4-0 early lead to his team. While the grand slam indicated a potential breakout phase for LeMahieu, the 37-year-old had more inspiring moments in store. He drove a two-run RBI double in the sixth inning to extend Yanks lead to 6-4. While the Phillies created scoring opportunities in the 8th and 9th innings, the Yankee relievers somehow escaped the damage.
That being said, the 6-5 victory was a redemption for DJ LeMahieu, who’s been in his career-worst form this year. Ailing from a foot injury, DJ made his season debut in May but was nowhere close to his dominant self. However, he kept fighting behind the scenes to produce a breakout game on Wednesday. “Today definitely felt good. I feel like I’m onto something,” LeMahieu said. Meanwhile, Yankees skipper Aaron Boone acknowledged that one game does not mean anything if the veteran is not able to thrive on the momentum and gain consistency. “Hopefully, he continues to get opportunities and gets it going,” said Boone. With the addition of Jazz Chisholm Jr and Ben Rice, LeMahieu’s start at third base has witnessed a decline. However, he still remains in Boone’s long-term plan, and this game will only help him earn more starts going forward.
Brian Cashman Justifies Underwhelming Trade Deadline
Meanwhile, following the conclusion of the mid-season trade deadline, New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman addressed the media and justified underwhelming moves. He feels the front office made the necessary moves to an already strong and thriving lineup. And Cashman also expects the roster to improve once injured guys come off IL.
“I like what we had before we made the moves, and I know we’ve improved since these moves,” Brian Cashman said in a press interview. Overall, the New York Yankees feel confident of where they stand. Moreover, with the series sweep against the Phillies, the Bronx Bombers remain just half a game below Baltimore Orioles in AL-East.
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