Much needed boost or a disappointment-filled repeat of 2024?
The New York Yankees could get a much-needed boost to their infield depth this week, with veteran DJ LeMahieu expected to rejoin the team in Seattle as they begin a three-game set against the American League West-leading Mariners.
According to Erik Boland of Newsday, DJ LeMahieu, who’s been sidelined since spring training with a left calf strain and more recently a hip issue, is slated to link up with the Yankees ahead of Monday night’s series opener at T-Mobile Park. While the team hasn’t officially confirmed his activation from the 10-day injured list, all signs point to him returning to the active roster soon.
The 36-year-old infielder wrapped up a productive nine-game rehab stint in the minors, going 12-for-27 at the plate with a home run, four walks, and just three strikeouts. Despite needing a cortisone shot mid-rehab for soreness in the same right hip that cut short his 2024 campaign, LeMahieu is reportedly healthy and ready to contribute.
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It’s also worth noting that LeMahieu’s bat was virtually nonexistent in 2024. Last season marked the steepest dip yet in what’s become a clear downward trend. In 228 plate appearances, he managed just 41 hits, with only two home runs, a .204 batting average, and a paltry .527 OPS. It was, by every measure, the worst offensive season of his career—and it wasn’t particularly close.
With Jazz Chisholm Jr. (oblique) expected to miss at least another month, LeMahieu could slot in as the Yankees’ everyday second baseman. Alternatively, manager Aaron Boone might shift him over to third base, where Oswaldo Cabrera has been filling in, depending on the rest of the lineup configuration. The Yankees realistically only have first base and shortstop fixed in the infield, so second base and third base could be up for grabs based solely on who offers the best bat on that given day.
If LeMahieu does get the call, here’s a look at what the Yankees’ batting order could resemble:
This lineup notably excludes Jasson Dominguez, but Boone has been rotating four outfielders and using Judge at DH occasionally, so any given day could look different.
LeMahieu’s return would have a ripple effect on the Yankees’ bench. One of Pablo Reyes, Oswald Peraza, or Jorbit Vivas will likely be squeezed out of the picture. Vivas, a left-handed hitter and the only one of the three with a minor league option, is the most likely candidate to be sent back to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre for everyday reps.
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After a string of injury-riddled seasons and a frustrating start to 2025, LeMahieu’s availability comes at the right time for a Yankees team looking to maintain its grip on first place in the American League East.
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