Yankees’ DJ LeMahieu Aims for Revival at Coors Field

DENVER — DJ LeMahieu returned to Coors Field on Friday, looking to reignite his batting performance following an injury. The Yankees’ veteran infielder had struggled in his first eight games after a calf strain sidelined him for over six weeks. Despite not achieving desired results, he was optimistic about his physical condition and hitting approach.

“I feel comfortable,” LeMahieu said before going 0-for-2 with a walk in Friday’s game. “I feel like I’m hitting the ball hard and like I’m seeing the ball pretty well. Just want to keep it rolling.”

His metrics support this confidence, as he entered the game with an average exit velocity of 93.8 mph and an expected batting average of .282. LeMahieu continued to struggle at the plate, but he also showed improvement defensively at second base, reinforcing manager Aaron Boone‘s assessment that he is “probably” moving better than in previous seasons.

<p“It's just the challenge of keeping him out there,” Boone remarked. “Feel like he’s in a good place right now physically and has been bouncing back pretty well.”

Upon returning as a visitor to Coors Field two years ago, LeMahieu excelled, going 6-for-13, leading to a strong post-All-Star performance. His career average here is an impressive .330 with an .835 OPS.

<p“Yeah, I miss hitting here every day,” LeMahieu joked about playing at Coors Field. “Not as easy on the body, but good place to hit, for sure.”

Injury updates also emerged during the game. Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Giancarlo Stanton stayed in New York to continue their rehabilitation processes. Chisholm, recovering from a right oblique strain, expressed hopes of returning within two weeks, avoiding a minor league rehab assignment.

<p“We’re pretty close,” Chisholm said during an event with police and children at Macombs Dam Park. “I’ve progressed to hitting against a high-velocity machine.”

Manager Aaron Boone, however, hinted that a minor league assignment might still be necessary for Chisholm, indicating they had yet to make a final decision.

<p“Whether it’s one game or two, we’ll probably do something,” Boone said.

Meanwhile, Marcus Stroman, who has been battling knee inflammation, traveled with the team and played catch at Coors Field on Friday. Boone noted that while Stroman has not yet faced hitters, he has been making progress with bullpen sessions.

<p“Some sides have been good,” Boone said of Stroman’s condition. “Not sure when he has a side next, but hopefully, he can get back to live pitching soon.”