Yankees Provide New Details on Giancarlo Stanton’s Injury Status

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kristie Ackert | Last updated Mar 14, 2025 9:52 PM ET

The Yankees are still waiting for Giancarlo Stanton to begin baseball activities, and they do not have a timeline for when that will happen.

Manager Aaron Boone called Stanton’s calf issue, which just came to light this week, “fairly minor,” but the Yankees remain in limbo as the slugger continues to recover from torn tendons in both elbows that have already delayed his progress. Stanton has not swung a bat since January, citing “severe” pain in his elbow.

With no clear return date, the Yankees must prepare for Opening Day without Stanton in the lineup. That leaves them with a few internal options for designated hitter, including Ben Rice, J.C. Escarra, and non-roster invitee Dominic Smith.

Rice, a left-handed bat with power, has hit the ball well this spring and brings some major league experience from last season. He continued to impress Friday night with a home run off Phillies starter Taijuan Walker. Escarra, a backup catcher, offers versatility, while Smith has turned heads with his bat in camp.

The Yankees could also explore adding a right-handed bat via trade or free agency, but Boone did not indicate that an external move is imminent.

Stanton's health has always been a major concern for the Yankees.

He has missed significant time with injuries since being acquired from the Miami Marlins. In 2019, he played in just 18 games due to multiple setbacks. He missed over half of the COVID-19-shortened 2020 season with a hamstring strain. Over the years, lower-body injuries, including hamstring, quad, and Achilles issues, have frequently sidelined him.

Because of his injury history, Stanton has mostly been limited to designated hitter duties. He has not played in the outfield since 2023.

Stanton is entering the 11th year of the 13-year, $325 million contract he originally signed with Miami. He will earn $32 million this season, followed by $15 million in 2026 and 2027. The Yankees hold a club option for 2028.

They remain in wait-and-see mode, hoping Stanton can resume baseball activities and avoid season-ending surgery.

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

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