The New York Yankees might be getting starting shortstop Didi Gregorius back from Tommy John surgery just in time. Gleyber Torres has been fantastic filling in for Didi and Troy Tulowitzki, but he has committed two errors in two consecutive series at the position.
Gaining back a consistent defensive player and bat in the lineup should help tremendously as they fight off the injury bug and extended fatigue. Gregorius is now with the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders and will remain with the Yankees minor-league team for six days.
On Wednesday, the Yankees worked Didi for seven innings in the infield, enjoying what seemed to be a full bid of health as he progresses quickly through his rehab program. On Thursday, he will feature at the designated hitter position and play nine full innings of defense.
Let’s circle June 4 at Toronto for what could be Didi Gregorius’ first game back with the #Yankees: https://t.co/PVlHx2qWtW
— Bryan Hoch ?? (@BryanHoch) May 28, 2019
This is a great sign for the Yanks as they might prefer to move Torres back to second-base and insert Didi at shortstop immediately. However, they do have the DJ LeMahieu at second currently who’s had a consistent season, hitting .313 on the year and has committed just one error 38 games.
It will be difficult to justify moving LeMahieu from a position he’s dominating on a daily basis, but it’s a move that has to be done if the Bombers wish to play Gregorius in his usual role. Although, they could utilize DJ as a reserve option to limit fatigue around the infield. That’s the ideal scenario as getting Didi back into baseball shape will be essential as we move further along in the regular season.
When should the New York Yankees expect Gregorius to return?
The Yanks could bring back Didi as soon as June 4th against the Toronto Blue Jays. If not that exact date certainly during that series. He’s already looking sharp in the minors and should be able to slide right into the starting team. Gaining back their esteemed leader should help the Yankees succeed even more than they already have with a glorified minor-league roster.