Watch a Simba Cam bring pure joy to MLB game
Fans at a New York Mets game were blessed with the Simba Cam, which encouraged people to lift their dogs into the air as “Circle of Life” played.
For almost a year, DJ LeMahieu disappeared. The two-time batting champion was unceremoniously cut by the New York Yankees after injuries took their toll. Last month, LeMahieu posted a note on social media thanking the Yankees for his time there, but no clue what his future plans were.
Now, it seems LeMahieu has found his next chapter right in his own backyard.
LeMahieu was named manager of the Royal Oak Leprechauns, the team announced Wednesday. He has financially supported the Michigan-based collegiate wood-bat team for years, helping players in his native Metro Detroit region.
A three-time MLB All-Star (2015, 2017, 2019) LeMahieu was one of the most versatile infielders of his generation. He won four Gold Gloves, two Silver Sluggers and batting titles in each league, making him one of two players in MLB history to accomplish that feat.
LeMahieu, 37, is a Bloomfield Township, Michigan, native who starred at Brother Rice High School, where he was an All-American before going to LSU and winning the 2009 College World Series. He was originally drafted by his hometown Detroit Tigers out of high school in 2007 but chose college instead. He was drafted in the second round in 2009 by the Chicago Cubs.
After 15 seasons in the majors, the Yankees designated him for assignment last July, ending a seven-year run in New York. He never signed with another club and never announced his intention to retire. He posted a vague note to Instagram last month thanking the Yankees for his time there.
Now, he is stepping into a dugout for the first time, managing in the same organization where he began as a donor and board member. The league helps college players prepare for professional baseball and exposes them to MLB team scouts.
LeMahieu began supporting the Leprechauns as a primary donor in 2020, funding the numerous renovations to Memorial Park, before transitioning to role of team president. More than $500,000 was initially invested in the field and scoreboard through his backing. He has been active in the Metro Detroit baseball scene even while playing in the big leagues. He owns the area’s premier training facility that serves as the home field for his Brother Rice team.
The Leprechauns’ season opens May 25 at home.
