LeMahieu looks to maintain positive vibes during his return to Colorado

DJ Lemahieu’s Return to Coors Field

DENVER – DJ Lemahieu made his way back to Coors Field on Friday, hoping to recapture some of his previous success at the high altitude.

Though the veteran Yankees infielder hasn’t quite seen the results he wanted in his first eight games since coming back from calf issues that sidelined him for over six weeks, he was feeling good both physically and at the plate.

“I feel comfortable,” Lemahieu stated after the Yankees’ 3-2 loss to the Rockies. “I’m making solid contact and think I’m seeing the ball well. Just want to keep it going.”

His performance backed that up; he recorded an average exit velocity of 93.8 mph and had an expected batting average of .282 on Friday.

In the game, he ended up with two groundouts.

More promising was his defensive work, especially at second base. With Jazz Chisholm Jr. back in the lineup, Lemahieu shifted back to third base.

“But it seems like he’s done well there in the past,” Boone noted. “It’s about keeping him healthy. Right now, he feels physically good and is bouncing back nicely.”

When he visited Coors Field two years ago as a former Rocky, Lemahieu thrived, using it as a launching pad for the latter part of the season.

Coming into Friday, he boasted an OPS of .835 and a batting average of .330 over 437 career games at Coors.

“Yeah, I miss hitting here daily,” Lemahieu admitted with a chuckle. “It can take a toll on your body, but it’s definitely a hitters’ paradise.”

Chisholm Jr. and Giancarlo Stanton are both remaining in New York this weekend for their recovery, possibly heading to Tampa next week. It’s still uncertain if Stanton will have a rehab assignment before making a return.

Meanwhile, Marcus Stroman (knee inflammation) arrived at Coors Field with the Yankees and worked out on Friday. He has been throwing bullpens but hasn’t faced live batters since feeling discomfort on May 9.

“Some things went well,” Boone commented. “It’s about building him back up. I’m not sure when he will throw next, but we hope to get him back and see how his knees respond.”