DJ LeMahieu hit in face during warmups
- DJ LeMahieu was hit in the face by a ball during warmups.
- He was scratched from the Yankees' lineup for the game against the Colorado Rockies.
- The incident occurred while LeMahieu was taking grounders at first base during batting practice.
NEW YORK (AP) — In a concerning turn of events for the New York Yankees, infielder DJ LeMahieu was struck in the face by a ball while taking grounders at first base during batting practice on Friday. Following the incident, LeMahieu was evaluated by a trainer before heading to the clubhouse, leading to his removal from the starting lineup for the game against the Colorado Rockies. The Yankees announced that LeMahieu was scratched from the lineup as a precautionary measure. Rookie Ben Rice stepped in to replace him at first base and took over the No. 9 spot in the batting order. This decision underscores the team's commitment to player safety, especially given LeMahieu's recent struggles and injury history. LeMahieu, who is in the fourth year of a six-year, $90 million contract, has had a challenging season, batting just .189 with two home runs and 24 RBIs across 62 games. The 36-year-old veteran previously played for the Rockies from 2012 to 2018 and has faced significant setbacks this season, including missing the first two months due to a fractured right foot. Despite his current difficulties, LeMahieu has a history of success, having won batting titles with both the Yankees in 2020 and the Rockies in 2016. His absence from the lineup raises questions about his health and the Yankees' performance as they face the Rockies.