ESPN: The Yankees manager Aaron Boone reveals the truth about the $90 million batting champion.
Aaron Boone has listened to all of the criticism. The New York Yankees’ intention to use DJ LeMahieu at third base has caused a stir among fans and sports talk radio. LeMahieu just had the worst season of his 14-year career in the major leagues. This season, he will be 37, and it is obvious that persistent ailments have affected his output. Boone, however, remains steadfast in his faith in the two-time batting champion. In a meeting with supporters in New Jersey, the Yankees manager defended LeMahieu and the team’s choice to give him a shot this season, according to Max Goodman of Nj.com.
“I think a lot of people are counting out DJ,” Boone stated. “DJ was one of the top hitters in the American League not too long ago. I would want to remind everyone that he hasn’t since he hasn’t been feeling well. We believe that tremendous hitter is still somewhat present in terms of health.
LeMahieu won the batting title in the American League five years ago. During the COVID-shortened 2020 season, he hit.364 in 50 games. During that season, LeMahieu missed games due to COVID-19. In 2016, he also won the National League batting title with the Colorado Rockies, hitting.348 in 146 games.
Defenses that attempted to shift on LeMahieu attest to the fact that he was one of the greatest hitters of his era, and Boone is right. The fact that time has passed is the issue. Last year, LeMahieu scored.204,.269, and.259 in 67 games. He had a foot ailment at the start of the season and a right hip impingement in early September. LeMahieu is respected by Boone, a player’s management. He will always back him up in public. Additionally, the company won’t just sever connections with a player who has $30 million left on a $90 million contract after two years.
Boone and LeMahieu are aware that this spring is crucial and that he must demonstrate his ability to play every day.
“Obviously, there are no certainties,” Boone stated, “but I am aware of his exceptional hitting ability. Hopefully, he can establish a career for himself once he’s healthy.
