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Yankees' Giancarlo Stanton Update Lowers Fan Expectations

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kristie Ackert | Last updated Jun 5, 2025 6:19 PM ET

Giancarlo Stanton is getting closer to being back in the New York Yankees lineup. How close, however, isn't clear.

Yankees manager Aaron Boone told reporters that Stanton will stay in Tampa at the Yankees' minor league complex this week, taking live batting practice. He said he could “potentially” start a rehab assignment next week.

It’s progress, but with Stanton, there’s always a wait-and-see vibe.

This is pretty much how all of 2025 has gone for Stanton.

He’s been dealing with nagging elbow tendinitis in both elbows that’s kept him off the field since late January. The veteran slugger blamed some swing tweaks for the “severe” tendinitis in both elbows. No surprise the Yankees have been cautious, given his long history of injuries.

Since joining New York in 2018, Stanton’s career has been a patchwork of calf strains, hamstring pulls, and now these elbow issues. He managed 114 games last year, which is pretty good for him. He still slammed 27 homers with 72 RBIs, which is a full season for most. And then he crushed seven homers as the Yankees ran all the way to the World Series.

So, while "healthy” is a word that’s often felt out of reach for the big bat, the Yankees feel that his tantalizing power, even in limited spurts, is worth the roster spot.

Also, Stanton’s locked into a massive 13-year, $325 million deal originally signed with Miami, with the Yankees now on the hook through 2027. This year, he’s set to earn $32 million, though the Marlins still cover $20 million. With that kind of cash invested, the team is giving him whatever he needs to get back in the lineup.

Realistically, since he has not played in the outfield for a few seasons, Stanton would not need a long rehab assignment. As long as he is seeing live pitching in live batting practice or simulated games, he could be ready.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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