DJ LeMahieu is edging closer to returning to action with the Yankees following positive developments in his recovery from a foot injury sustained in mid-March. According to manager Aaron Boone, LeMahieu’s progress has been encouraging, with recent displays of his abilities in batting practice and fielding indicating significant improvement. Boone mentioned that LeMahieu is eager to transition into rehab games soon, as he continues to accompany the team and participate in workouts despite the recent rainout.
Boone highlighted the importance of LeMahieu’s lateral movement as a key focus in his recovery regimen, noting that while progress has been made, further refinement is needed in aspects like cutting during running drills. The decision on the number of rehab games required for LeMahieu’s return will largely depend on the assessment of the training staff.
Having only participated in 29 plate appearances during spring training before his injury, LeMahieu’s readiness to handle consecutive games and prolonged innings will be closely monitored. Meanwhile, there were positive updates on other injured Yankees players, with Gerrit Cole making progress in his recovery from elbow nerve inflammation and Tommy Kahnle showing promising signs in his shoulder rehabilitation.
In terms of pitching strategy, Luis Gil’s availability out of the bullpen for the doubleheader against Cleveland was influenced by the postponement of Friday’s game, leading to the decision to call up Cody Poteet for Game 2. With a packed schedule ahead, including six games in five days, the Yankees are strategizing to manage their pitching resources effectively, potentially slotting Gil back into the rotation for the upcoming series against Toronto depending on his workload during the doubleheader.
