With 60-58, the New York Yankees are set to launch a late playoff push with 44 games in hand. The team is set to face the strong Atlanta Braves in a three-game series next. Braves are leading the NL-East with 75-42. Hence, the struggling Bronx Bombers must bring out their best to stand a chance at securing a comfortable win.
In a major boost ahead of the crucial series, the New York Yankees are set to welcome back key players from the injury list. Veteran infielder DJ LeMahieu who has been on the sidelines throughout the weekend will likely make a splashing return. Apart from LeMahieu, key starter Carlos Rodon is also inching closer to an early return.
DJ LeMahiue Survives Injury Scare, To Return On Monday Vs. Braves
After losing out to Miami Marlins, the New York Yankees are set to face the mighty Braves next. Hence, they need the best hands available at the deck. Meanwhile, ahead of the series, the club is set to attain the services of a key infielder. DJ LeMahieu was mysteriously scratched from Wednesday’s lineup against the White Sox. The club later informed that LeMahieu felt tightness in the calf during batting practice and was hence pulled off as a precautionary measure. But an IL stint was not ruled out. Further, the infielder went on to miss four straight games, which raised substantial doubt. However, it seems the break worked, as the Yankees are expecting LeMahieu to return on Monday vs. Braves.
Ahead of the scheduled games, DJ LeMahieu said that he was ready to play on Sunday in the series finale vs. Marlins. However, the team chose to avert the risk. The infielder added that the four games of absence led to intense frustration as he wanted to be out there to support his team, the Yankees. Having said that, barring any late setbacks, the veteran is cleared to return on Monday. DJ’s return is crucial for the Yanks, as the infielder was hitting .309 with a .824 OPS in the past 23 games after witnessing a prolonged slump. It’s been a tough season for DJ as he has struggled for the most part of the season. But now, as he has regained his true flow, he wants to make the most of it.
Yankees Starter Looking For An Early Return
Meanwhile, New York Yankees prized starter Carlos Rodon entered 15-day IL owing to a hamstring strain. He left his start against the White Sox last week after facing discomfort. However, the strain is being diagnosed as low strain, and the pitcher has not stopped throwing. He last threw a bullpen session on Saturday in Miami and showed positive improvement.
Next up, Carlos Rodon will travel to the Yankees training facility in Tampa to face live hitters in simulated games. While Rodon still has a week left before he is eligible to return, the Yanks won’t mind an early return. The plan right now is to activate him as soon as he regains match fitness. In the meantime, right-handed pitchers Jhony Brito and Randy Vasquez are present in the rotation as reinforcements.
