Aaron Boone has been facing criticism from all sides. The New York Yankees’ plan to play DJ LeMahieu at third base has drawn ire from fans and sports talk radio. LeMahieu, who is coming off the worst season of his 14-year career, will be 37 this year, and injuries have undeniably affected his performance.
However, Boone remains firm in his belief in the two-time batting champion. During a fan meeting in New Jersey, Boone defended LeMahieu and the team’s decision to give him another chance in 2025, as reported by Max Goodman of Nj.com.
“I think a lot of people are counting out DJ,” Boone stated. “It wasn’t long ago that DJ was one of the best hitters in the American League. I just want to remind people that the reason he hasn’t performed recently is due to health issues. If he’s healthy, I believe the great hitter is still there.”
LeMahieu, five years removed from his AL batting title, had an impressive .364 average in 50 games during the COVID-shortened 2020 season. He also won the NL batting title in 2016, hitting .348 over 146 games with the Colorado Rockies.
Boone is right that LeMahieu was once one of the most feared hitters—just ask the defenses that tried to shift against him. The question now is whether his time has passed.
Last year, LeMahieu struggled, posting a .204/.269/.259 slash line in 67 games. His season was marred by a foot injury that started it and a right hip impingement that ended it in September.
As a player’s manager, Boone has consistently supported LeMahieu. With two years and $30 million left on a $90 million contract, the organization is unlikely to sever ties with the player just yet.
Both Boone and LeMahieu understand the stakes of this spring. LeMahieu must prove he can be an everyday player.
“There are no guarantees, obviously,” Boone said. “But I know how great of a hitter he is. With good health, he can carve out a role for himself.”
