LE MACHINE MAKES IT 28

Source: ESPN

The unlikeliest guys in what has turned out to be the incredibly impossible first half of the season have set the new record of the most consecutive days with a long ball.  And the utility infielder who no one really knew existed pushed the Yankees over the finish line.

"HISTORY! DJ LeMahieu's solo shot gives the Yankees a home run in an MLB-record 28 consecutive games. #YANKSonYES," tweeted the YES Network shortly after LeMahieu's launch to left field.  LeMahieu has contributed 7 of those 28 home runs, second to only Gary Sanchez.

Source: AP

"General manager Brian Cashman signed LeMahieu to a two-year, $24 million contract before the season, and saw him as a part-time player who could fill in when needed, since he’s a three-time Gold Glove winner. But now, the LeMahieu signing looks like Cashman’s best move of the year," reported NJ.com. 

What many fans don't know about this signing is that LeMathieu had an opportunity to play everyday for a variety of teams, including division rivals Tampa Bay Rays.

"Cashman called LeMahieu’s agent, Joel Wolfe, while both were abroad over Christmas — Wolfe was in Amsterdam, Cashman in Montreal. Cashman made a new offer and detailed how the Yankees would use LeMahieu at different positions. Wolfe told Cashman the Rays and other clubs were willing to pay LeMahieu a similar amount to be their everyday second baseman but that LeMahieu wanted to challenge himself and become a Yankee," reported NJ.com. 

Source: NY Post

Teammate Gary Sanchez has nicknamed LeMathieu "The Machine" bestowed upon him for his consistent hitting, particularly with runners in scoring position as he bats .478 with runners in scoring position. "Just another day at the ballpark," Aaron Hicks said. "The guy gets hits. That's what he does. He's not called 'The Machine' for nothing," reported MLB.com. 

There is nothing not to like about DJ Lemathieu.  His contributions to this Yankee team are invaluable.  This hidden gem from the Rockies is shining in the Bronx.  You never know what you can do unless you take risks and we are all fortunate Lemathieu was willing to challenge himself to become a Yankee.

--Suzie Pinstripe
BYB Managing Editor
Twitter: @Suzieprof