New York Yankees: What Will DJ LeMahieu’s Role Be In 2019?

The New York Yankees spent the offseason adding essential non-flashy pieces to a team that won 100 wins last season. Why do I mention the 100 wins? Because some believe that the Yanks absolutely ‘needed’ a player like Manny Machado or Bryce Harper.

The New York Yankees addressed areas of concern appropriately:

Instead of signing big names on decade-long contracts, GM Brian Cashman created a smoke-screen to draw attention away from several valuable veteran players that provided immediate value in the short-term. Players like Troy Tulowitzki and DJ LeMahieu were on his radar and eventually signed contracts with the Bombers.

Tulowitzki will feature as the starting shortstop while Didi Gregorius heals from Tommy John surgery, and LeMahieu’s role has been difficult to interpret. It was thought that the former Rockie would act as a rotational player for a majority of the season, but manager Aaron Boone indicated otherwise, stating that he would, in fact, play in around 145 games.

One of the more interesting comparisons is the Yankees vs Phillies offseason acquisitions:

The Phillies went all-in on massive deals that will haunt them down the line, while the Yanks kept to the short term and provided value in a win-now campaign. Players like Tulo and LeMahieu offer veteran leadership and that extra bit of quality to push the Yankees over the hump.

A realistic point of view:

Realistically, the Yanks could be a 105 win team with one of the best bullpens in baseball and an upgraded infield (defensively). Cashman made the cost-efficient moves without plaguing the team with cap-issues in five years.

DJ’s primary reserve is his hitting, which sounds insane given his numbers – .276/.321/.428. The hit on LeMahieu is where he was batting – Coors Field, a very hitter-friendly stadium. Most are worried that his numbers won’t translate to Yankee Stadium.

But, it’s not all about his batting. He brings three Gold Gloves to an infield that had zero in 2018. They ranked as one of the worst in runs-allowed due to errors. My biggest question is – if DJ is expected to play in 145 games, where’s Gleyber Torres going to feature?