Keith sounds off on DJ LeMahieu being used as Yankees defensive replacement

DJ LeMahieu was brought in late during Tuesday’s thrilling win over the Phillies, and Keith wasn’t happy at all to see the struggling veteran take the field.

“DJ LeMahieu is still getting at-bats. How hilarious is that to see?” Keith said. “DJ LeMahieu has to come in as a defensive replacement. What a joke.”

LeMahieu did wind up having a nice scoop at first base in the eighth inning to save a potential throwing error from Anthony Volpe and keep the bases empty, but he popped out in extra innings with a runner on third and one out, as the Yanks failed to score. Keith would have much preferred to see Ben Rice up in that spot.

“DJ LeMahieu is still getting a critical at-bat late in the game after coming in as a defensive replacement for Ben Rice,” Keith said. “Why? Is he more athletic than Ben? I know he has more experience, but I’m not putting him in over Ben Rice at this point. At least Ben Rice has been clutch late in games. But what do I know?”