The New York Yankees are staring adversity in the face on several fronts after a tumultuous week. Ranging from Josh Donaldson’s comments toward Chicago shortstop Tim Anderson to a myriad of injuries in the pitching sphere, manager Aaron Boone is trying to pick up the pieces.
The Yankees announced prior to Tuesday’s game against Baltimore that closer Aroldis Chapman was placed on the 15-day injured list. Chapman is dealing with Achilles tendinitis, which could keep him out for a few weeks as he recovers.
However, Chapman wasn’t the only player to receive injury news. Starting infielder DJ LeMahieu was scratched due to wrist discomfort.
- Yankees are starting to see young left-handed catcher flourish
- Yankees close to getting reinforcements in the infield
- Yankees: Good news and bad news from 4-2 loss to Orioles
INF DJ LeMahieu was scratched from tonight's game with left wrist discomfort.
— New York Yankees (@Yankees) May 24, 2022
LeMahieu has been extremely valuable to the Yankees infield plans, shifting him around to supplement fatigue. This season, he’s played 31.1 innings at first base, 103 innings at second base, and 159 innings at third base. LeMahieu has been fantastic as a utility man, but he’s also contributed offensively.
DJ is hitting .250 this year with three homers and 17 RBIs, hosting a 13.7% strikeout rate and 33% on base rate. His efficiency is down quite a bit compared to 2021, but he still has plenty of time to enjoy a few hot streaks in the batter’s box.
Nonetheless, the Bombers will have to rely on some of their reserve options to fill multiple voids, both in the pitching category and infield.
Luckily, the Yankees reinstated catcher Kyla Higashioka before the game, receiving a bit of reinforcement.