New York Yankees' Giancarlo Stanton, left, and DJ LeMahieu. Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Yankees $90 Million Veteran Set to Return to Lineup Against Seattle

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kristie Ackert | Last updated May 12, 2025 9:25 PM ET

DJ LeMahieu was traveling to Seattle on Monday, but the New York Yankees’ veteran infielder was not on the active roster. Manager Aaron Boone told reporters before Monday night’s series-opener against the Mariners that they were holding off until Tuesday to activate the 36-year-old.

LeMahieu will make his 2025 debut on Wednesday.

LeMahieu has been sidelined since spring training due to a left calf strain and a subsequent hip issue. His return is timely, as the Yankees are currently without second baseman of Jazz Chisholm Jr., who is on the injured list with an oblique strain.

Boone has indicated that LeMahieu will primarily see action at second base upon his return, especially with Chisholm Jr. expected to be out for several more weeks.

This move will require the Yankees to open up a roster spot. Jorbit Vivas, Oswald Peraza, and Pablo Reyes are the likely candidates to be affected by LeMahieu’s return. Peraza, who recently hit a crucial home run, is out of minor league options. The Yankees would risk losing him to another team if they were to attempt to designate him for assignment.

A two-time batting title champion, LeMahieu has appeared in 203 games, slashing .232/.311/.352 with 17 home runs and 70 RBIs over the last two seasons. That works out to an 84 OPS+, well below league average.

His struggles and injuries have raised questions about his future with the team.

LeMahieu is in the fifth year of a six-year, $90 million contract signed in 2021. With one year left after this season, the Yankees need to get some production from him.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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