Yankees could get postseason weapon back from lengthy absence

New York Yankees' Giancarlo Stanton. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Yankees could get postseason weapon Giancarlo Stanton back from lengthy absence

By Vanessa Serrao | Last updated Sep 24, 2026 12:44 PM ET

New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone has claimed that Giancarlo Stanton could potentially return from his lengthy absence for the postseason.

Stanton is known for being a dangerous postseason weapon, with a career .254 batting average with 45 hits, 18 home runs, 44 RBI and 26 runs across 48 games in the playoffs.

His massive contributions in the Yankees' 2024 postseason run saw him blast seven home runs while also winning ALCS MVP honors. But how much he would be able to contribute would limit him to a bench role.

"You're looking at more of a pinch-hit scenario. Obviously, we'll see if that's even a realistic option. I don't know yet," Boone said.

Aaron Boone on Giancarlo Stanton potentially returning for the Playoffs, Via @BryanHoch

"You're looking at more of a pinch-hit scenario. Obviously, we'll see if that's even a realistic option. I don't know yet."

The Yankees have the 2nd highest odds on Kalshi to win the AL pic.twitter.com/Sq6ExMnArF
— Punchoutpitch (@Punchoutpitch) September 24, 2026

A Giancarlo Stanton return could be a big win for the Yankees

Both Stanton and Trent Grisham took live at-bats at Somerset on Wednesday, and Stanton also homered, which was a positive sign of his potential return.

If Stanton returns for the AL wild-card series against likely the Boston Red Sox, he could provide momentum against southpaws, with a career .276 batting average, 118 home runs and a stellar .946 OPS against them.

But considering that he's only played 24 games this season, fans shouldn't expect him to come out mashing. However, having him come in as a pinch-hitter in high-leverage situations could pay off for the Yankees. A matchup with Aroldis Chapman and Stanton would certainly be entertaining to watch, as Stanton could be a game-changer in a late-game rally.

If the slugger is activated, the Yankees might be able to get the last ounce of power that's left in him in order to maximize their success for a deep postseason run.

Vanessa Serrao

Serrao is a freelance baseball writer who has covered all MLB teams, with particular expertise on the Toronto Blue Jays. She is a member of the Internet Baseball Writers Association of America.

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