The New York Yankees’ infield has been a headache for manager Aaron Boone since the beginning of season. While DJ LeMahieu missed initial two months due to foot injury, Anthony Rizzo missed second half with arm fracture, forcing front office to seek external replacements.
The New York Yankees signed Jazz Chisholm Jr at the trade deadline, and the electric athlete has been on fire since donning the pinstripes. Moreover, the Yanks finally aim to resolve the first base issue with Anthony Rizzo’s return from IL. However, amongst all this, a veteran third baseman, who’s performing at an all-time low, might be sacrificed due to lack of playing time.
DJ LeMahieu On Borrowed Time As Yankees Move On From The Veteran
The return of Anthony Rizzo from injury has raised questions about DJ LeMahieu’s future with the New York Yankees. With Rizzo back in the lineup, the Yankees face a crowded infield, leading to speculation that LeMahieu’s role may be reduced or even phased out. Rizzo, who was out of action since June 14 due to an arm fracture, was reinstated from IL on Sunday and scored an RBI hit in his first game against the Cardinals. The first baseman appeared in good touch and can be a regular face at first base for the rest of the year. However, Rizzo’s return also creates a challenge for manager Aaron Boone in managing playing time for other infielders.
The New York Yankees optioned Ben Rice to Triple-A minor league as a corresponding move to adjust Anthony Rizzo in the lineup. DJ LeMahieu, who lost his third base spot to Jazz Chisholm Jr, was splitting time at first base with Rice. However, his offensive production has not matched his veteran levels. LeMahieu is batting .202 with a .525 OPS with a zero WAR. While Yanks owe DJ a $15 million annual salary until 2026, the front office hasn’t shied away from releasing high-paying veterans in the past. In 2023, they DFA’d Josh Donaldson and Aaron Hicks, who held big bucks in the payroll. Hence, LeMahieu could head in the same direction. Whatever the choice may be, Aaron Boone has to carefully evaluate LeMahieu’s calibre as a declining veteran. If he can still serve another year, perhaps the Yanks must play the gamble of retaining him.
Anthony Rizzo Feels Confident After Scoring In First Game!
New York Yankees first baseman Anthony Rizzo played his first game after 2.5 months injury layoff on Sunday and immediately contributed on the plate. He scored an RBI single on two hits and achieved a stellar double play with precise presence of mind. In the post-game interview, Rizzo said he felt confident upon return.
“I know the result wasn’t there team-wise, but I had just a lot of fun being out there,” he said. While the rehab period was long, Anthony Rizzo used his mental toughness to ensure his morale was always high. His same mentality was on full display as he returned back to action. Physically, Rizzo felt great and is looking forward to playing regularly at first base.
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