Yankees Make Giancarlo Stanton Decision Before Mariners Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Cole Hudson | Last updated Apr 1, 2026 3:47 PM ET

As the New York Yankees prepare for their matchup against the Seattle Mariners, questions have emerged about who will fill the designated hitter role. The uncertainty comes despite a strong 5-0 win over Seattle, highlighted by Giancarlo Stanton’s impressive performance, going 2-for-4 with two RBIs.

Ben Rice also played a key role in the victory, finishing a perfect 2-for-2 with an RBI, two runs scored, and two walks.

Even with Stanton producing early this season, the Yankees appear focused on managing his workload as he enters his 16th year in the league. In a notable lineup decision, Rice is expected to take over at designated hitter, while Paul Goldschmidt shifts to first base.

The move is not performance-based but rather a strategic effort to keep Stanton fresh. It could become a regular adjustment throughout the season.

Wrapping up the road trip. #RepBX pic.twitter.com/K4JU1WvmaF
— New York Yankees (@Yankees) April 1, 2026

Managing Stanton’s workload will likely be a priority for the Yankees as they look to stay productive while keeping their veteran healthy.

Stanton remained effective last season, posting a .273 average, 24 home runs, 66 RBIs, a .944 OPS, a .350 OBP, and a .594 slugging percentage across 77 games. Still, those numbers fall short of his 2017 MVP campaign, when he hit .281 with 59 home runs, 132 RBIs, a 1.007 OPS, a .376 OBP, and a .631 slugging percentage in 159 games.

The Yankees also have depth to support this approach. Last season, Goldschmidt delivered a .274 average with 10 home runs and 45 RBIs, along with a .328 OBP and .403 slugging percentage in 146 games. Meanwhile, Rice produced a .255 average, 26 home runs, 65 RBIs, a .337 OBP, and a .499 slugging percentage across 138 games.

New York Yankees designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton (27) reacts following a strikeout against the Seattle Mariners during the second inning at T-Mobile Park. © Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images

Selected in the second round of the 2007 MLB Draft, Stanton has developed into one of the premier power hitters of his generation. The former Marlins star and current Yankee earned MVP honors in 2017 and has been named a five-time All-Star, a two-time Silver Slugger, an ALCS MVP, and an All-Star Game MVP, while also winning the Home Run Derby.

Now in his 16th season, Stanton continues to showcase elite power and bat speed, regularly producing exit velocities above 110 mph. He has surpassed 450 career home runs and owns a .918 postseason OPS, highlighting his ability to perform in high-pressure moments. At 6-foot-6 and 245 pounds, his size and strength make him one of the most physically imposing players in the league.

Stanton is in the final years of a 13-year, $325 million contract, with the Yankees owing him $29 million in 2026 and $25 million in 2027.

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

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