New York Yankees slugger Giancarlo Stanton remains sidelined indefinitely as he battles persistent elbow tendinitis in both arms, casting doubt on his availability for the upcoming series against the Baltimore Orioles. The designated hitter, who hasn’t played since a flare-up during offseason workouts, confirmed Tuesday that his recovery is progressing—but not quickly enough to avoid missing critical games.
While Stanton has resumed hitting off high-velocity pitching machines, the Yankees’ power threat faces a lengthy rehab process, leaving fans to wonder: Will his bat return in time to bolster the lineup against their AL East rivals?
Giancarlo Stanton’s slow climb
Despite incremental progress, Stanton admitted a return before the Orioles series is highly unlikely. The 34-year-old, who hasn’t faced live pitching since 2023, revealed he’ll need minor league rehab at-bats to rebuild timing and confidence.
“I’ve got to catch up,” Stanton said, comparing his preparation to an “expedited spring training.”
Even if his elbow discomfort subsides, the Yankees’ medical staff won’t rush him back without proper conditioning—a timeline that clashes with this week’s games.
Stanton’s rehab regimen includes hitting off a Trajekt machine, which simulates big-league pitching velocities. While his strength has improved, lingering soreness and the need for plate discipline drills signal he’s weeks—not days—from rejoining the lineup. Manager Aaron Boone has echoed caution, prioritizing Giancarlo Stanton’s long-term health over short-term gains.
A Painful Reality
The three-time All-Star has managed bilateral elbow tendinitis since last season, relying on platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections to mitigate inflammation. Though the treatments provided temporary relief, Stanton acknowledged the pain will persist even after his return. Surgery, which would cost him the entire 2024 season, remains off the table.
Giancarlo Stanton’s absence leaves a gaping hole in a Yankees lineup already missing key contributors. Last postseason, his seven homers carried the team’s offense, but his recent injury history—four straight seasons disrupted by setbacks—has tested the patience of fans and management alike.
New York Yankees’ offense soldiers on
With Stanton sidelined, the Yankees will lean heavier on Juan Soto, Aaron Judge, and Anthony Volpe to counter Baltimore’s pitching. Stanton’s power (24+ homers annually since 2021) is irreplaceable, but New York’s depth has kept them afloat in the AL East race.