When the Yankees signed DJ LeMahieu to a 2 year, $24 million dollar contract in January, his projected impact flew under the radar. Whether it was due to the wealth of prolific hitters already on the roster or LeMahieu’s low-profile demeanor, he was quickly prove to be the most impactful hitter in the Yankees’ lineup.
Coming into the 2019 MLB season, LeMahieu had already won three Gold Gloves, a batting title, and made two All Star teams. However, he has already set career highs in HRs (24), RBIs (90), wRC+(138), and WAR (5.4). His .329/.377/.528 slash line has put him in contention for another batting title, as well as a top-3 finish for MVP.
His versatility in the field has been invaluable to the Yankees, especially since they dealt with a record number of injuries this year. While he is a Gold Glove second baseman, LeMahieu has seamlessly moved around to first and third to help his team. Despite playing 576 innings away from his natural position, LeMahieu has still managed to produce 5 DRS and a 3.2 total UZR.
LeMahieu has put all of the “Coors Field Effect” doubters to rest, and looks to help lead the Yankees to the World Series.