New York Yankees powerhouse Giancarlo Stanton is inching closer to a long-awaited return, but fans hoping to see him suit up for the upcoming Rockies series may need to temper expectations. Manager Aaron Boone provided a cautiously optimistic update Tuesday, revealing Stanton is nearing the “end game” of his rehab from bilateral elbow tendinitis. While the slugger is eligible to come off the 60-day injured list as early as May 24, the Yankees are eyeing a mid-June return—leaving his availability for the Colorado clash in serious doubt.
Aaron Boone's update on Giancarlo Stanton
Boone confirmed Stanton has progressed to advanced stages of recovery, including high-velocity batting practice and a near-complete running program. “He’s toward the end game of his running program,” Boone said, emphasizing Stanton’s improved swing volume. However, the Yankees are prioritizing caution, opting for a deliberate ramp-up to avoid setbacks.
Stanton’s injury saga began in spring training when elbow inflammation halted his preseason prep. The 34-year-old received two rounds of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections and avoided surgery, which could have sidelined him until August. Aaron Boone hinted Giancarlo Stanton’s rehab assignment will be brief, as he’ll return exclusively as a designated hitter—a role that reduces strain on his elbows.
Why the Yankees can afford to wait
New York’s DH committee has thrived in Stanton’s absence, ranking 4th in MLB in batting average (.284) and 2nd in OPS (.987). Rookie Ben Rice has been a revelation, slashing .250/.348/.529 with 9 homers and 20 RBI. Boone quickly dismissed speculation about Rice shifting to third base (“just for fun”), but the Yankees’ depth allows flexibility.
By the Numbers Without Stanton:
15 HRs, 14 doubles, 30 RBI from DHs in 2025
Team record: 32-18, leading the AL East
Stanton’s redemption arc
Giancarlo Stanton’s 2023 resurgence—.233 avg, 27 HRs, 72 RBI—peaked with a historic playoff run: 7 HRs, 1.048 OPS, and ALCS MVP honors. But his latest injury, exacerbated by a 3-4 week batting hiatus before spring training, raises questions about his durability. The Yankees’ medical team initially underestimated the severity of his elbow issues, delaying treatment until camp opened.
Rockies series outlook: Too soon for Stanton?
With Stanton’s activation date likely pushed to mid-June, the Yankees’ June 4-6 Rockies series at Coors Field comes too soon. New York’s current DH production lessens urgency, and Aaron Boone won’t risk reaggravating Stanton’s elbows on baseball’s longest field.
Key Factors Delaying His Return:
Running Program Finalization: Ensuring lateral mobility without elbow stress.
Batting Consistency: Facing live pitching in rehab games.
Team Performance: No need to rush with Rice and others excelling.
Giancarlo Stanton’s rehab assignment could begin in late May, with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre a probable destination. His return will hinge on pain management and replicating his 2023 power surge. For now, Aaron Boone’s message is clear: “We’ll wait until he’s fully ready.”