UPDATE: Giancarlo Stanton is set to make his return to the New York Yankees lineup tonight after missing three games due to general soreness, as confirmed by manager Aaron Boone on WFAN. Stanton will play right field in one of the two crucial games against the Tampa Bay Rays, but fans should note that Aaron Judge will remain sidelined.
The Yankees, riding high after a sweep of the St. Louis Cardinals, currently hold a three-game lead for the final American League wild-card spot. Stanton’s return is vital, especially as the team navigates Judge’s uncertain status. Boone stated that Judge is scheduled to test his right elbow with long toss today but emphasized that there is no clear timeline for his return.
“I don’t know yet,” Boone said. “What I’ve said is I’m waiting on the trainers to say, ‘thumbs up.’ He’s expected to long toss again today, so I don’t expect it here in Tampa. Could it be Boston? Maybe. I just don’t know yet.”
Judge’s absence has significantly impacted the team’s flexibility. After being activated from the injured list on August 5, he has only served as the designated hitter, batting an impressive .333 with 39 home runs, 91 RBI, and a 1.134 OPS. His recent home run was his first extra-base hit since returning, showcasing his potential but emphasizing the limitations he faces.
Boone also mentioned that Judge may struggle to regain full throwing strength this season, saying, “I don’t think we’re going to see him throwing like he normally does at any point this year, but that’s OK. We’ve got to feel like he can go out there and protect himself.” This raises concerns about Judge’s contributions on both offense and defense.
Stanton, who is batting .299 with 12 home runs and 34 RBI this season, has a long injury history that makes any outfield assignment a gamble. He initially missed the start of the season due to tendinitis in both elbows and has now missed three games due to soreness following three consecutive games in the outfield.
As the Yankees face the Rays tonight, the stakes are high. The team must navigate the challenges of injuries while maintaining their playoff push. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Stanton’s return impacts the lineup and whether Judge will soon follow suit.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops. The Yankees’ playoff hopes hinge on the health of their star players, making every game critical as the season progresses.