DJ LeMahieu's Rehab Assignment Delayed as MRI Shows Fracture Not Fully Healed

The New York Yankees announced that DJ LeMahieu's minor league rehab assignment has been delayed after an MRI showed that the fracture in his right foot has not fully healed. LeMahieu, a two-time batting champion, has been sidelined since March 16 when he fouled a ball off his foot during a spring training game.

The Yankees want to ensure LeMahieu's foot is 100% healed before he starts his rehab assignment, which is now expected to begin on Tuesday at the earliest. "DJ is ready to go, but the team is being conservative with his recovery," said Yankees manager Aaron Boone. Doctors were not comfortable clearing LeMahieu for the rehab assignment based on the MRI results.

LeMahieu expressed frustration with the setback, as he was eager to make his 2024 debut. "I'm frustrated by the lack of healing, but I'm hopeful that I will be able to start a rehab assignment in the next 3-4 days," he said. The Yankees are currently leading the American League East with a 13-6 record, even without LeMahieu and ace Gerrit Cole.

Why this matters: LeMahieu's return is essential for the Yankees' lineup, as he provides consistent hitting and solid defense. His absence has forced the team to rely on Oswaldo Cabrera at third base, and while they have managed well so far, having LeMahieu back will strengthen their depth and versatility.

In related moves, the Yankees placed reliever Nick Burdi on the 15-day injured list due to right hip inflammation and recalled right-hander Cody Morris from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. They also claimed outfielder Taylor Trammell off waivers from the Los Angeles Dodgers, seeing him as a talented player who hasn't yet translated his potential to the major league level.

LeMahieu hit a career-low.243 last year and missed the postseason due to a broken sesamoid bone in his right big toe. The Yankees are hoping this latest foot injury is just a temporary setback and that he can return to form once fully healthy. "When DJ does return, likely in early May if his rehab goes well, he will be a welcome addition to our lineup," Boone said.</p

Key Takeaways

• DJ LeMahieu's rehab assignment delayed due to unhealed foot fracture.
• Yankees being conservative with LeMahieu's recovery, aiming for early May return.
• Yankees lead AL East despite missing LeMahieu and ace Gerrit Cole.
• LeMahieu's return crucial to strengthen Yankees' lineup and versatility.
• Yankees make roster moves, placing reliever Burdi on IL and claiming OF Trammell.