DJ LeMahieu Becoming Most Important Player in Yankees Lineup

Where would the New York Yankees be without DJ LeMahieu? Not in first place, that's for sure.

We know about all the injuries the Yankees have endured this season, but they wouldn't be sniffing the playoffs, much less be in the driver's seat of the AL East, if GM Brian Cashman hadn't made the surprise signing of LeMahieu.

On the season, LeMahieu is hitting .317 with six home runs and 32 RBI, and he added to his season totals Friday night against Chris Sale, going 2-for-4 with a double and home run.

LeMahieu isn't just anchoring the offense at the top of the lineup, but his defensive versatility can't be overlooked. In 51 games this season, LeMahieu has started 35 games at second base, 14 at the hot corner, and even one at first base.

He showed off his underrated glove work Friday night, too, ranging to his right and stealing a hit away from Eduardo Nunez.

Highlight reel. An absolute highlight reel.

LeMahieu may be mild-mannered and doesn't play with flash or flair, but this shouldn't be too shocking. Along with winning a batting title, LeMahieu is a two-time All-Star and three-time Gold Glove winner.

He may have been hiding out in Colorado, but the bright lights and big stage of New York hasn't kept LeMahieu from becoming a star right before our eyes.

You can make a case for Gio Urshela, but it's hard to argue against LeMahieu being dubbed as the Yankees' most important player and MVP of this squad.