The New York Yankees made headlines on Wednesday by designating veteran infielder DJ LeMahieu for assignment — a move that signals a definitive shift in their infield strategy. Manager Aaron Boone addressed the decision publicly for the first time, offering insight into the difficult conversations that led to the surprising roster shakeup.

LeMahieu, a two-time batting champ and former All-Star, had been relegated to a bench role in recent weeks. The team’s decision was finalized following the Subway Series, where Boone determined that Jazz Chisholm Jr. would return to his natural position at second base. In a corresponding move, Jorbit Vivas was recalled from Triple-A, adding fresh legs to a changing Yankees infield.