Paul Goldschmidt, age 37 and accustomed to playing 150-something games per year, would be another logical choice for some DH days. Giving the first baseman a break from the field could lead to more at-bats for Ben Rice, a natural catcher who learned first last year and has enjoyed a hard-hitting spring.

Serving as designated hitter, LeMahieu was injured on his second at-bat in New York’s 9-3 win over the Houston Astros.