DJ LeMahieu impresses Yankees in rehab stint, return timetable approaching

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DJ LeMahieu completed his fourth minor league rehab game on Sunday, marking a crucial step toward returning to the New York Yankees lineup after missing the start of the season with a calf strain. Over four games with Double-A Somerset, LeMahieu showcased impressive form, going 6-for-10 at the plate, including a home run, a double, and three RBIs. His solid offensive performance was matched by steady defensive play, providing encouraging signs for both the player and the Yankees organization.

“It felt great getting back out there,” DJ LeMahieu said after Sunday’s game. “Everything felt good this week. I’m not sure of the plan moving forward until I speak to the Yankees to figure out the next steps with them.”

Progressive workload

DJ LeMahieu, who has primarily played second base during this rehab stint, logged progressively increasing workloads, playing five innings in his first two games and then six innings in each of the final two. Throughout this period, he handled five putouts without committing an error, indicating his readiness to return defensively.

Despite initially suggesting he would take on a “heavy volume” workload by the weekend, LeMahieu was somewhat unexpectedly removed from Sunday’s game in the bottom of the sixth inning, just before he was due to lead off. However, there was no indication of any setbacks or discomfort.

Boone plans third base role

Manager Aaron Boone confirmed on Sunday that LeMahieu would soon begin taking reps at third base, highlighting the Yankees’ strategy to reintegrate him effectively into their infield rotation. With third base remaining an area of instability for the Yankees early this season, LeMahieu’s return could be a significant boost. Boone emphasized the importance of DJ LeMahieu’s versatility, particularly as the team navigates injury concerns and lineup adjustments.

DJ LeMahieu’s history of success underscores his potential value upon returning. He notably became the first player in MLB’s modern era to win batting titles in both leagues—capturing one with the Colorado Rockies in 2016 and another with the Yankees in 2020. Nevertheless, his recent seasons have been marred by injuries, reflected in a drop to a .232 batting average and a .663 OPS over the past two years.

Yankees’ expectations

Currently in the middle of a six-year, $90 million contract signed in 2021, LeMahieu has two years and $30 million remaining. As he nears his 37th birthday in July, the Yankees remain hopeful that a fully healthy LeMahieu can significantly contribute, both offensively and defensively.

Although no exact return date has been set, it is estimated that LeMahieu will need around 20 additional at-bats before being deemed fully game-ready. This cautious approach ensures he’s completely prepared, given his importance to the team’s long-term goals.

Clayton Beeter’s rehab progress

Meanwhile, Yankees pitching prospect Clayton Beeter also made rehab appearances at Somerset last week. After a rough start on Wednesday, where he allowed three runs and three walks while recording only one out, Beeter rebounded impressively on Saturday. He delivered 1.2 scoreless innings, striking out two batters without permitting any baserunners, and demonstrated strong command of his fastball, consistently hitting velocities in the upper 90s.

Beeter has yet to pitch for the Yankees this season due to a right shoulder impingement. Prior to his time with Somerset, he began his rehab assignment in Tampa, where he pitched 1.1 scoreless innings on April 20. His progress offers additional optimism regarding the Yankees’ pitching depth as the season advances.

Overall, the rehab developments involving DJ LeMahieu and Beeter are promising indicators for the Yankees, who are looking to stabilize their roster as they continue through the early stages of the season. Fans eagerly await LeMahieu’s return, hopeful his strong minor league performance translates seamlessly back into Major League play.

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