The New York Yankees faced a big blow ahead of the opening day game against the Houston Astros scheduled for March 28 at Minute Maid Park. After Gerrit Cole was sidelined for 1-2 months due to an elbow nerve inflammation injury, veteran infielder DJ LeMahieu followed his cue.
DJ LeMahieu got hit on the foot by a foul ball during spring and has been in a recovery process ever since. While the injury is nothing remotely serious, the nagging pain has forced the Yankees to put DJ on IL for the time being. And now, skipper Aaron Boone has revealed LeMahieu’s replacement for the leadoff hitter spot.
Gleyber Torres Named Yankees Leadoff Hitter For Impending Opening Day!
As the New York Yankees prepare for opening day, one of the key decisions facing manager Aaron Boone is determining who will lead off for the team in the absence of DJ LeMahieu. After careful consideration, it has been announced that infielder Gleyber Torres will step into the leadoff role. During a recent virtual press conference, Boone announced Torres’ promotion. Notably, LeMahieu is expected to start the season on IL due to a foot injury. While the return timeline is uncertain, Boone prays the issue does not turn into anything serious. Regardless, as far as opening day is concerned, Boone covered his basics and trusted the second baseman with the important role. Notably, in pre-season, Aaron Boone emphasized how he considers the leadoff position as one of the key ones in baseball.
Not only that, the Yankees skipper said he wants someone consistent to hold the spot. Boone firmly believed DJ LeMahieu was someone who could foster under that pressure. Accordingly, Boone named him as an everyday leadoff starter before the injury crisis hit. That being said, the promotion of Gleyber Torres could be a smart move. The second baseman is coming off a stellar offensive season and has the ability to thrive as a leadoff hitter. Of course, Torres will likely face some adjustments as he transitions to the leadoff role. But his talent and potential make him well-suited for the challenge. With the support of his teammates, Torres has the opportunity to establish himself as a dynamic presence atop the Yanks lineup. While the stakes are high, the infielder will likely exceed expectations on opening day.
Jose Trevino To Catch For Nestor Cortes On Opening Day!
This year, for a change, Nestor Cortes will fulfill the duties of opening day starter for the New York Yankees. While Gerrit Cole was originally charged with the role, an elbow injury sustained during spring sidelined him for 10-12 weeks. And accordingly, Cortes was named the Yank’s opening day starter against the formidable Houston Astros.
That being said, Yankees skipper Aaron Boone recently revealed that veteran catcher Jose Trevino will catch for Nestor Cortes on opening day. That means prospect Austin Wells will fulfil bench duties and likely take field in Game 2. All things said and done, the Yankee roster is set for opening day and the fans are counting down hours before they get to witness their favorites stars in action.
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