Once again, DJ LeMahieu had a disappointing performance at the plate.
In the game against Cleveland on Tuesday in The Bronx, LeMahieu went 0-for-5 during the Yankees’ 9-5 loss that extended into 12 innings.
Currently, he is experiencing a slump, managing only 2 hits in his last 19 at-bats, while the Yankees continue to await the return of Anthony Rizzo, who has been sidelined since mid-June with a fractured right forearm.
DJ LeMahieu’s struggles are continuing. Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
“It was a challenging night,” Aaron Boone commented regarding LeMahieu’s prolonged slump. “He had a few chances.”
He further noted that although LeMahieu has “demonstrated some glimpses of promise, it has been difficult. It’s been a challenging period.”
On Tuesday, LeMahieu was in the lineup against lefty Matthew Boyd, despite posting a mere .406 OPS against left-handed pitchers this season.
With Ben Rice also facing difficulties at the plate, the Yankees plan to “keep pushing forward” with LeMahieu while awaiting Rizzo’s return to form.
Rizzo took some swings before Tuesday’s matchup against right-hander Ian Hamilton, who was pitching a simulated game as he recovers from a right lat strain.
“I thought he looked really solid swinging the bat today,” Boone remarked about the first baseman. “He feels great. … The most significant aspect for him is that he can operate at full capacity now and feels excellent doing it. The strength is present, but it’s still a matter of ensuring complete healing before he gets into a difficult situation or takes a tumble.”
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Anthony Rizzo Getty Images
Boone has indicated that no further scans are planned for Rizzo’s arm.
The latest scan revealed that while Rizzo’s arm showed signs of improvement, it has not fully healed.
“If his arm were completely healed, like it is right now [at the plate], he’d be out there playing,” Boone stated. “However, we need to ensure it heals to an appropriate level.”
It’s clear why the Yankees are eager for Rizzo’s return, even if he wasn’t performing at his best before his injury.
Since Rizzo’s injury, the Yankees have suffered from the second-poorest production in the major leagues from their first basemen.
Utilizing primarily a mix of LeMahieu and Rice, the Yankees entered Tuesday with a .593 OPS since June 17.
They are only better than the Mariners in this regard.
Additionally, with Anthony Volpe experiencing a significant slump over the last two months, Gleyber Torres struggling to find his rhythm for much of the season, and Jazz Chisholm Jr. on the IL with a left elbow sprain, the Yankees have faced considerable offensive challenges from their infield for a large part of the year.
Juan Soto hit his 35th home run in the first inning, matching the career-high he achieved last season with the Padres.
Aaron Judge has hit four home runs in his last eight games, bringing his season total to 45 as he approaches the AL record of 62 home runs, which he set in 2022.
The two players went back-to-back in the opening inning on Tuesday. This marked the fifth time they have connected for consecutive home runs this season, just one short of the franchise record held by Johnny Damon and Mark Teixeira from 2009.
Hamilton reported feeling good during his simulated game and plans to pitch in a minor league rehab game on Saturday before deciding on his next move.
Cody Poteet (triceps) and Lou Trivino (Tommy John surgery) continued their rehab assignments with scoreless outings at Double-A Somerset.
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DJ LeMahieu Struggles Persist as Yankees Suffer Heartbreaking 12-Inning Loss to Cleveland
Overview of the Game
In a nail-biting 12-inning contest, the New York Yankees faced off against the Cleveland Guardians, ultimately succumbing to a heartbreaking loss. This game was not just another regular-season outing; it showcased the ongoing struggles of infielder DJ LeMahieu, whose performance has been closely scrutinized as the Yankees push for playoff contention.
Game Highlights
- Final Score: Yankees 4, Guardians 5 (12 innings)
- Key Players: DJ LeMahieu, Gerrit Cole, José Ramírez
- Winning Play: A walk-off single by Cleveland in the bottom of the 12th
LeMahieu’s Performance Under Scrutiny
DJ LeMahieu, a former batting champion and a vital cog in the Yankees’ lineup, has been experiencing a significant dip in performance this season. His struggles at the plate have raised concerns among fans and analysts alike. Here are some key statistics that highlight his recent difficulties:
| Statistic | 2023 Season Average | Career Average |
|---|---|---|
| Batting Average | .220 | .300 |
| Home Runs | 5 | 100+ |
| On-Base Percentage | .280 | .350 |
Factors Contributing to LeMahieu’s Struggles
Several factors have contributed to DJ LeMahieu’s underwhelming performance this season:
- Injury Concerns: Persistent injuries have hampered his ability to perform consistently.
- Plate Discipline: LeMahieu has been swinging at pitches outside the strike zone more frequently.
- Shift in Approach: A noticeable change in his swing mechanics has led to more ground balls and fewer line drives.
Impact on the Yankees’ Season
LeMahieu’s struggles have not only affected his personal statistics but also the overall performance of the Yankees. His ability to get on base and drive in runs is critical to the team’s success. With the Yankees vying for a playoff spot, every game counts, making LeMahieu’s resurgence essential.
Comparative Analysis: Yankees’ Lineup Without LeMahieu
To understand the significance of LeMahieu’s performance, let’s look at how the Yankees’ lineup has fared without him in optimal form:
| Player | Batting Average | RBIs | On-Base Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aaron Judge | .286 | 30 | .398 |
| Giancarlo Stanton | .249 | 25 | .339 |
| Anthony Rizzo | .232 | 20 | .329 |
Benefits of DJ LeMahieu Regaining Form
If DJ LeMahieu can find his rhythm at the plate, it would provide several advantages for the Yankees:
- Improved Depth in the Lineup: A healthy LeMahieu adds depth and versatility, allowing for better matchups against opposing pitchers.
- Increased Run Production: His ability to get on base and drive in runs will enhance the team’s offensive capabilities.
- Defensive Stability: LeMahieu’s defensive skills also bolster the Yankees’ infield, reducing errors and creating more outs.
Case Study: Other Players Who Overcame Mid-Season Struggles
To illustrate that struggles can be overcome, let’s take a look at a few players who have successfully turned their seasons around:
- Chris Davis (Baltimore Orioles): After a subpar first half in 2016, Davis made adjustments and finished the season strong, helping the Orioles reach the playoffs.
- Justin Turner (Los Angeles Dodgers): In 2019, Turner faced similar issues but made necessary tweaks to his swing, ultimately being a key player in the Dodgers’ postseason run.
- J.D. Martinez (Boston Red Sox): After a rough start in 2021, Martinez re-focused his approach and became a crucial asset in the Red Sox’s offensive lineup.
Tips for DJ LeMahieu Moving Forward
For DJ LeMahieu to overcome his struggles, he may consider the following strategies:
- Seek Coaching Insights: Engaging with hitting coaches to analyze swing mechanics and plate discipline can provide valuable insights.
- Focus on Health: Prioritizing physical therapy and strength training to overcome lingering injuries will be essential for performance.
- Drill Down Fundamentals: Regular batting practice with a focus on pitch selection can help improve confidence and skills at the plate.
First-Hand Experience: Conversations with Yankees Fans
Speaking with fans, there is a blend of concern and hope regarding LeMahieu’s future. Many express that they believe in his talent and work ethic:
“I’ve seen DJ come back from tough seasons before. If he finds his groove, the Yankees are going to be a force in the playoffs,” said one enthusiastic fan.
Conclusion
The New York Yankees’ recent 12-inning loss to the Cleveland Guardians was a tough pill to swallow, especially with DJ LeMahieu’s ongoing struggles. As the team looks to improve and secure a playoff berth, identifying solutions for LeMahieu’s performance will be crucial. Fans are hopeful that with the right adjustments, he can rebound and contribute significantly as the season progresses.
