Yankees Make Surprising Giancarlo Stanton Announcement Before Boston Series

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kristie Ackert | Last updated Jun 13, 2025 6:29 PM ET

Giancarlo Stanton was not activated before Friday night’s series opener in Boston, despite seemingly having wrapped up his rehab assignment earlier this week. Manager Aaron Boone told reporters pregame that Stanton was in the Bronx on Friday, working out at Yankee Stadium instead of joining the club at Fenway Park.

Boone said Stanton will likely play one more rehab game Saturday with Double-A Somerset. The Yankees have not ruled out a return at some point this weekend in Boston, but Boone admitted he doesn’t necessarily expect that to happen.

Stanton went 3-for-11 with four RBI over three rehab games at Somerset, including a pair of run-scoring singles and a deep flyout to right-center.

The wait raises questions—not necessarily about Stanton’s health, but about how the Yankees plan to structure the lineup. He will join a crowded group that includes Ben Rice and Paul Goldschmidt. Boone said he will rotate them, but it won't be that simple.

When he does return, someone will have to go. Pablo Reyes, who scored the only run in Thursday’s win at Kansas City , may still be the most likely odd man out. Oswald Peraza’s glove at shortstop likely keeps him safe, at least for now.

Stanton’s last game with the Yankees was in the World Series. He was hitting .269 with eight home runs and a .856 OPS before a hamstring strain shut him down in early May. He’s been sidelined for more than five weeks.

He’s done his part to return. Now the Yankees are managing the final step. Whether the delay is about timing, fit, or just one last look in Somerset, Stanton will wait at least two more days.

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

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