Yankees’ DJ LeMahieu Frustrated by Latest Injury: “Is This a Sick Joke?”
New York Yankees infielder DJ LeMahieu has worked diligently to alter his offseason routine, aiming to put an end to his recurring injury problems. However, despite his efforts, it seems his body isn’t responding as he had hoped.
During Saturday’s game against the Houston Astros, LeMahieu was forced to leave the field due to a lower calf injury. On Sunday, he shared with reporters that he had not yet undergone an MRI to assess the severity of the issue. Expressing his frustration, LeMahieu candidly admitted that his immediate reaction to the setback was: “Is this a sick joke?”
This latest injury leaves uncertainty surrounding when LeMahieu will be able to resume baseball activities. According to the New York Post, he acknowledged that it might take some time before he can return to the field.
With Opening Day scheduled for March 27 against the Milwaukee Brewers, the Yankees are now left waiting to see whether LeMahieu will be available when the season begins. As of now, it remains unclear if his injury will require a stint on the injured list.
Even before suffering this setback, LeMahieu’s role in the Yankees’ lineup was uncertain. He was competing with Oswaldo Cabrera and Oswald Peraza for the starting third base position. Once regarded as a key contributor known for his timely hitting and defensive versatility, LeMahieu’s recent struggles have made him a potential liability rather than an asset.
Since the start of the 2021 season, LeMahieu’s offensive production has declined significantly. The two-time batting champion has managed just a .252 average over that stretch, a far cry from his earlier success. In 2023, foot injuries severely impacted his performance, limiting him to a career-low .204 batting average over just 67 games. Additionally, he posted a -1.6 bWAR, highlighting his struggles on both sides of the game. As a result, he was unable to participate in the Yankees’ postseason run.
Earlier this spring, LeMahieu revealed that he made a notable change to his offseason routine, choosing to take a two-month break from hitting in an attempt to allow his body to recover properly. However, with this latest injury, his time away from baseball activities may be extended once again.
LeMahieu had entered spring training determined to prove that he was healthy and capable of contributing to the team. But following his most recent injury, he was forced to acknowledge his frustration with how things have unfolded so far.
“I wanted to come in here this spring and prove I’m healthy,” LeMahieu said. “I’m not off to the hottest start with that.”
The Yankees’ Third Base Competition and LeMahieu’s Role
With the Yankees looking to solidify their infield for the 2025 season, LeMahieu’s injury adds another layer of uncertainty to an already competitive third base situation. The team has been weighing its options, with LeMahieu, Cabrera, and Peraza all vying for playing time at the position.
LeMahieu, a three-time All-Star, was once a staple in the Yankees’ lineup, offering consistency at the plate and defensive versatility across multiple infield positions. However, his declining offensive numbers and injury history have made it difficult for the team to rely on him as an everyday player.
In recent seasons, LeMahieu has struggled to maintain the form that once made him a key piece of the Yankees’ offense. During his first two seasons in New York, he hit an impressive .336 and .364, earning an MVP finalist spot in 2020. But since 2021, his numbers have fallen off significantly, and injuries have only made matters worse.
Cabrera and Peraza, both younger and more athletic, present viable alternatives for the Yankees at third base. Cabrera, known for his defensive prowess and versatility, has shown flashes of offensive potential. Peraza, a top infield prospect, brings speed and solid defensive skills, making him a strong candidate for playing time.
Even if LeMahieu had remained healthy this spring, he was not guaranteed a starting role. His latest injury only adds further doubt about his place on the team moving forward.
The Bigger Picture for the Yankees
LeMahieu’s health concerns come at a critical time for the Yankees as they prepare for the 2025 season. The team has been dealing with various injury issues in recent years, and their ability to stay healthy will play a significant role in their success.
The Yankees’ lineup, while filled with talent, has been inconsistent due to injuries and underperformance. With key players like Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton having faced their own injury woes in recent seasons, the team is hoping to avoid another year plagued by setbacks.
For LeMahieu, the road to recovery will be crucial. If he can return to full health and regain his form, he could still be a valuable asset for the Yankees, providing depth and veteran leadership. However, if his injuries continue to linger, his future with the team may be in jeopardy.
As the Yankees move through spring training, they will closely monitor LeMahieu’s status while also evaluating their other infield options. Whether or not he can overcome this latest obstacle remains to be seen, but for now, his frustration is clear.
LeMahieu’s battle with injuries has been a recurring theme in recent years, and this latest setback only adds to his growing list of challenges. His reaction—“Is this a sick joke?”—perfectly captures the frustration of an athlete who has worked tirelessly to stay on the field, only to be met with yet another obstacle.
For now, all the Yankees and their fans can do is wait and hope that LeMahieu’s injury isn’t as serious as it appears. But with his health once again in question, the team must also prepare for the possibility that they will need to rely on other options at third base as they head into the 2025 season.
What’s Next for DJ LeMahieu?
As LeMahieu awaits further evaluation of his injury, the focus will be on determining the extent of the damage and how much time he may miss. If the injury is minor, he could return to action relatively soon, giving him a chance to compete for playing time before Opening Day.
However, if it turns out to be more serious, it could mean another extended absence, putting his status for the start of the season in doubt. Given his recent history with injuries, the Yankees may take a cautious approach to ensure he fully recovers before returning to game action.
Regardless of the outcome, LeMahieu’s situation is a reminder of the physical toll the game takes on players and the unpredictable nature of injuries. While he remains determined to contribute to the Yankees, he will need to overcome yet another hurdle before he can prove he is truly back to full strength.
As spring training continues, the Yankees will keep a close watch on LeMahieu’s recovery process. In the meantime, the competition for third base will continue, with Cabrera and Peraza looking to seize the opportunity.
For LeMahieu, the journey back to the field begins once again. Whether or not he can finally put his injury troubles behind him remains to be seen, but for now, his frustration is understandable. All he can do is focus on his recovery and hope that this time, he can truly stay healthy.
