West Sacramento Update on DJ Lemahieu
West Sacramento, California – DJ Lemahieu’s return is not as timely as anticipated.
Due to weather issues, rehab infielders couldn’t play back-to-back games with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes Barre.
The initial expectation was for Lemahieu to be activated for the A series, aiming to participate on Tuesday and Wednesday. However, rain postponed Tuesday’s game, as well as the SWB games on Thursday and Friday.
If weather permits, he might be able to play Saturday and Sunday, gearing up for the series in Seattle that starts Monday.
In his seven games against Double-A Somerset and SWB, Lemahieu recorded two walks, a home run, and a double, with a score of 19-9. Manager Aaron Boone expressed optimism about Lemahieu’s performance.
“I really hope he can find his role,” Boone remarked before the A’s 10-2 series win at Sutter Health Park. “Ideally, we want him back as the batting champion, but in the meantime, whether he can effectively handle left-handed pitchers or maintain his defensive skills, we’ve got various scenarios to consider.”
Last season, Lemahieu struggled through 67 games due to hip and foot problems.
More recently, the 36-year-old suffered from tension in his left calf, which has sidelined him since early March. During his rehab, he even required a cortisone shot, described by Boone as a “first” step of intervention.
The Yankees are hopeful for a productive Lemahieu but emphasize the importance of his health.
“The main concern is his recovery and consistency in bouncing back,” Boone stated. “I think he feels optimistic about where he’s at right now. Last month was a good ramp-up for him, given how he feels.”
The Yankees, missing Jazz Chisholm Jr., are counting on a prime Lemahieu when he returns. He is likely to split time between two bases, potentially displacing players like Jorvit Vivas, Oswald Peraza, or Pablo Reyes.
In strategic decisions, Boone opted to rest left-handed Cody Bellinger against Osvald Bido, given the mismatches in pitching.
During a successful game, Trent Grisham manned center field, Ben Rice was the designated hitter, and Jackson Dominguez impressively hit three home runs while playing left.
“I’ve got five or six players vying for four or five spots,” Boone commented.
Austin Wells also got a breather after participating in all three games against the Padres.
JC Escarra caught for Will Warren, while Wells is set to start Saturday.
This visit to California marked a significant moment for Boone, who saw Sacramento for the first time, describing the experience as a sort of nomadic purgatory.
“My first impression is very positive,” Boone said, reflecting on a dinner outing with his coaching staff on Thursday. “I hadn’t expected much, but I was pleasantly surprised.”
