New York Yankees infielder DJ LeMahieu has yet to play in the 2025 MLB season because of a calf injury. However, manager Aaron Boone announced Monday, May 12, before the game against the Seattle Mariners that LeMahieu will be activated off the injured list Tuesday and is expected to return to the lineup the next day.
Unfortunately, with LeMahieu set to return for New York, the Yankees saw another player go down. Third baseman Oswaldo Cabrera suffered an injury in the team’s series-opening game against the Mariners and is expected to miss time with a leg issue. As a result, LeMahieu will most likely step into his spot.
New York Yankees’ DJ LeMahieu Returns in Time After Oswaldo Cabrera’s Injury
For whatever reason, the Yankees can’t seem to escape injury headlines this season. Boone’s announcement about LeMahieu’s return sparked excitement from fans, but as one player returns, another goes down.
In the Yankees’ 11-5 win over Seattle to open the series, Cabrera suffered a serious leg injury while scoring the team’s 11th run on an Aaron Judge sacrifice fly in the ninth inning. The injury was significant enough that Cabrera had to be taken off the field on a stretcher and left the stadium in an ambulance.
After the game, Boone spoke about Cabrera’s leg injury.
“Everyone understands it’s a pretty serious situation. We’re just praying for our guy Cabby tonight and hoping for the best and trust that he’s in good hands as he goes through the night here.”
The 26-year-old Cabrera has started most of the season at third base. Now, it remains to be seen how long he’ll be sidelined.
Through 34 games, Cabrera is batting .243 with one home run and 11 RBIs, to go with an on-base percentage of .322.
As mentioned, the injuries continue to hit the New York franchise. But with Cabrera now hurt, LeMahieu’s timing for a return couldn’t be better. Boone commented on his return, calling it a boost for the Yankees.
“DJ LeMahieu could fall out of bed and hit. I think the biggest thing that’s tripped him up over the years is the nagging, different injuries that have popped up and slowed him.”
LeMahieu played in 67 games during the 2024 season, hitting .204 with two home runs and 26 RBIs, with a .269 on-base percentage. While it’s a big lift to have him back, it’s a tough blow for New York to lose Cabrera to such a serious injury.