In a surprising turn of events, the New York Yankees are struggling to find their footing at third base. Both DJ LeMahieu and Josh Donaldson, former All-Stars, have been underperforming recently. LeMahieu, typically a reliable infielder, has sat out for the past three games as part of a reset initiated by manager Aaron Boone. On the other hand, Donaldson has faced criticism from fans after going hitless for three consecutive games.
Boone remains hopeful for Donaldson, stating that he believes the seasoned player has the potential to turn things around. However, it seems that Donaldson’s struggles are nothing new, as he has been having a rough season, following an underwhelming performance in 2022. General manager Brian Cashman emphasizes the need for Donaldson to have more at-bats before making any judgments about his hitting abilities.
Both LeMahieu and Donaldson have taken early batting practice in an effort to improve their performance. Boone hopes that this “reset” will be beneficial for LeMahieu, who has been perplexing the Yankees with his lackluster results despite feeling physically well. LeMahieu had a difficult period last year due to a fractured foot, leading to a prolonged slump and eventually being sidelined for most of the season.
Despite opting against foot surgery in the offseason, LeMahieu had a solid start to this season before entering another slump. In an attempt to get back on track, LeMahieu has been working with the coaching staff to address his swing and correct any bad habits he may have developed from the previous year’s injury.
The struggles of LeMahieu and Donaldson have affected the Yankees’ overall performance at third base, with the team currently ranking 27th in OPS in the majors. Last year, they were in a much better position, ranking 14th in the same category. While LeMahieu’s absence from the lineup has been a strategic decision, Boone plans to start him in the upcoming game against Bryan Woo, a right-handed pitcher with a 7.30 ERA.
The Yankees are determined to find a solution for LeMahieu’s declining exit velocity and increasing strikeout rate. They believe that his struggles are more related to a mechanical issue with his swing rather than an injury. Boone remains confident that with some adjustments, LeMahieu will regain his form and be the productive player he’s always been.
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