Yankees veteran delivers big swing after long time away from the spotlight
DJ LeMahieu ended a nearly 10-month home run drought on Saturday, launching a solo shot to right field in the third inning of the Yankees' game against the Mets. It was his first homer since July 31, 2024, when he hit a grand slam against the Phillies. This long-awaited blast opened the scoring for the Yankees, giving them a 1–0 lead.
The usually reserved LeMahieu pumped his fists emphatically as he rounded the bases, seeming to acknowledge the frustrations he had been through. LeMahieu has struggled with injuries since he signed a six-year, $90 million deal with the Yankees. Plagued by injuries, LeMahieu's production has been limited. He began the 2024 season on the injured list due to a non-displaced fracture in his right foot, which hindered him throughout the year. He began this season on the injured list with a calf strain and needed a cortisone shot in his hip during rehab.
New York Yankees second baseman DJ LeMahieuBrad Penner-Imagn Images
When he returned from the injured list this week, LeMahieu was uncertain of his future with the Yankees.
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"I told Boonie already, I'm ready to help this team," LeMahieu told YES Network's Meredith Marakovitz. "You know, whatever role that is, I'm good with. The ego's been checked a little while ago."
But clearly, there still is a lot of pride for a player who was a two-time batting champion. With Oswaldo Cabrera's injury season-ending and Jazz Chisholm, Jr. out with an oblique injury, LeMahieu will get a chance to play and prove himself again.
Saturday's homer will be a big step for LeMahieu and the Yankees. It clearly meant a lot to him.
Related: DJ LeMahieu Responds to His Uncertain Role After Yankees' Manager's Revelation
Related: Yankees Nearing Key Decision on Giancarlo Stanton After Injury Update
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