Giancarlo Stanton’s Season Kickoff Delayed: What His Injured List Status Means for Fans and the Yankees

The Yankees have announced that Giancarlo Stanton will start the season on the injured list due to ongoing issues with his elbows. He recently received PRP injections in both elbows and is expected to return to spring training soon after dealing with a personal matter in New York.

This news isn’t surprising. Stanton hasn’t swung a bat in over a month because of persistent elbow pain. A couple of weeks ago, both Stanton and manager Aaron Boone described his condition as similar to tennis elbow, mentioning some tendon damage. While surgery isn’t being considered yet, it could become necessary if there’s a serious tendon tear. Stanton has emphasized the importance of being cautious during recovery.

Currently, there’s no specific timeline for his return, but a late April comeback seems optimistic for the five-time All-Star. Once he recovers from the PRP treatment, Stanton will need additional time to ramp up for game action, especially since he’s missed so much practice and conditioning time recently. Given his history of injuries, particularly with his legs, he’ll need to prepare thoroughly, even though he’ll primarily play as a designated hitter this season.

Injuries have unfortunately shadowed Stanton’s career, impacting his performance under the massive 13-year, $325 million contract he signed with the Marlins in 2014. He still has $96 million remaining over the next three years, but the Yankees are only responsible for $66 million after trading for him in 2017.

Despite these challenges, Stanton has been a solid hitter for the Yankees with a .241 average, 162 home runs, and a .483 slugging percentage over nearly 2,800 plate appearances. He can still be a dominant presence at the plate, but injuries often cut his time short. Last season, he dealt with a hamstring strain that sidelined him for about five weeks. However, he bounced back well, hitting 27 home runs in 2023, and even excelled during the playoffs, earning ALCS MVP honors.

Now, as Stanton faces another injury while entering his 16th Major League season, it’s frustrating for both him and the team. These current elbow problems bring a new set of concerns, shifting focus away from his usual leg issues.

With Stanton out, the Yankees may rotate players in the designated hitter spot, allowing veterans like Aaron Judge, Paul Goldschmidt, and DJ LeMahieu to get some rest. Ben Rice may have a better chance at making the Opening Day roster as a result.

Additionally, the Yankees might explore outside options if Stanton’s absence extends. They’ve reportedly showed interest in J.D. Martinez, which could lead to an acquisition if Stanton’s recovery slows down. However, bringing in a veteran like Martinez could push the Yankees further beyond the luxury tax threshold, currently projected at around $305.1 million.

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