The Yankees are still without Giancarlo Stanton, but manager Aaron Boone gave a somewhat hopeful update on his recovery Monday.
Boone told reporters, including MLB.com's Bryan Hoch, that the slugger is "doing a little bit more of everything" behind the scenes as he works his way back from torn tendons in both elbows.
At least it wasn't bad news, but Stanton is far away from returning to the Yankees' lineup.
Stanton has yet to resume baseball activities, and the Yankees have remained vague about his timeline. He has not swung a bat since January due to what he described as "severe” elbow pain, and Memorial Day has been mentioned as an optimistic return date. If Stanton ultimately requires surgery, his season will be over.
Stanton's health has been a constant worry since the Yankees acquired him from the Marlins in 2018.
Boone also updated reporters on DJ LeMahieu, who was sidelined by a left calf strain. The veteran infielder has resumed swinging a bat and hitting off a tee while moving around more freely. Boone said LeMahieu is "moving the needle" in his recovery, but it remains unclear if he will be ready for Opening Day.
With less than two weeks until the season starts, the Yankees have already been hit hard by injuries. They lost Gerrit Cole for the season to Tommy John surgery and Luis Gil for at least three months with a lat strain.
Stanton and LeMahieu's absences have further complicated the Yankees' roster decisions, especially those regarding the replacement of a designated hitter. With no timeline for Stanton's return and a restrictive payroll, the Yankees are considering internal options like Ben Rice and Dominic Smith for the starting DH position.
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