MLB Analyst reflects on the positive impact and depth that DJ LeMahieu brings to the New York Yankees' roster - "he makes that lineup longer"

DJ LeMahieu feels a cent percent healthy and will be joining the rest of the New York Yankees' roster for spring training. LeMahieu missed the entire postseason in 2022 due to a broken big right toe and ligament damage to another. He opted for rehab because he knew how much effort he had to put into recovering from the surgery and letting himself heal completely in order to make the roster for the 2023 season.

"Lemahieu just gives everything to this Yankees team. Not only in the field but let's be honest he makes that lineup longer" - Chris Shearn

"This Yankees lineup could be absolutely mashing from Day 1" - YESNetwork

DJ LeMahieu, 34, was placed in the IL in September to be eligible to participate in the postseason before being activated for the final two games of the regular season. Yet because of the foot injury, he was still a shell of himself, and the pain affected his swing. He was therefore left off the playoff roster, and the Yankees missed him terribly.

"Starting up LeMachine" - Yankees

New York Yankees need an active, injury-free LeMahieu. The Yankees backed Josh Donaldson for the entirety of the postseason, even when he failed at many ABs. LeMaheiu's versatility in the infield gives coach Aaron Boone an option to move him around on any of the three bases freely.

DJ LeMahieu will play a crucial role for the New York Yankees in 2023 season

Throughout the winter, manager Aaron Boone kept in touch with the veteran infielder and was of the opinion that the feedback he was receiving from him was sincere. According to Boone, LeMahieu was finally sounding like himself again by the middle of the offseason.

"Mike Trout is the best player in baseball. He’s incredible. He’s insane. He’s something else"

"Without DJ LeMahieu - The Yankees are most likely in 2nd or 3rd in the AL East"

"The man should be AL MVP" - BRappy55

LeMahieu's departure was certainly a contributing factor in New York Yankees' slump in 2022. It demonstrates how essential he is to this business. The team's record stood at 69-34 going into August. They went on to finish 30-29 post that.

DJ LeMahieu is one of the most underappreciated players on the team. He has also won two batting crowns and four Gold Glove awards, in addition to three All-Star games.