After an active offseason, the New York Yankees are poised for a potential comeback to the playoffs in 2024 following a disappointing performance last year.
However, a significant concern looms over their prospects: injuries. The team’s ace, Gerrit Cole, is anticipated to be sidelined for the opening weeks of the season, and now it appears that DJ LeMahieu, the projected leadoff hitter, could also be facing a spell on the sidelines.
Bryan Hoch of MLB.com recently reported this development, casting a shadow over the team’s preparations for the upcoming season.
DJ LeMahieu has ‘a pretty significant bone bruise’ on his right foot, according to Aaron Boone, who is not sure if LeMahieu will have enough time to be ready for Opening Day.”
LeMahieu, who inked a lucrative six-year, $90 million deal with the Yankees in 2021, boasts an impressive resume, with multiple All-Star appearances, Gold Glove and Silver Slugger awards to his name.
However, his performance at the plate has declined since then, notably evidenced by his .243/.327/.390 slash line in 2023, a significant drop from his stellar .364/.421/.590 figures that secured him the MLB batting championship in 2020.
The Yankees had pinned their hopes on LeMahieu’s resurgence in the leadoff role, setting the stage for powerhouse hitters like Juan Soto and Aaron Judge to follow. Manager Boone had designated him for that pivotal position but also mentioned outfielder Alex Verdugo as a potential alternative.
Furthermore, the injury bug seems to have bitten other key players on the team. Alongside LeMahieu and Cole, there are concerns regarding Aaron Judge’s readiness for Opening Day due to lingering abdominal issues, adding to the Yankees’ woes as they gear up for the start of the season.
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