Giancarlo Stanton’s Elbow Tendinitis Raises Opening Day Doubts
TAMPA, Fla. — The New York Yankees, one of baseball’s most storied franchises, are facing a bit of uncertainty as they prepare for the upcoming season. Slugger Giancarlo Stanton, a five-time All-Star and a key player for the team, is dealing with chronic tendinitis in both elbows. This issue, which has been persistent since last season and even through the postseason, has raised concerns about his availability for the March 27 opener against the Milwaukee Brewers. Manager Aaron Boone remains cautiously optimistic but is hesitant to put a specific timeline on Stanton’s return. “It’s tough to say,” Boone said on Sunday. “We’re going to be smart about it and listen to his body, giving him the best chance to contribute throughout the year.”
Managing the Elbow Tendinitis
Stanton’s elbow issues are comparable to tennis elbow, and they have been a recurring problem over the past few seasons. Boone emphasized that the team is treating these injuries as season-long concerns, focusing on maintenance and allowing Stanton to play through some discomfort. “We need to take advantage of his off days to treat the tendinitis and keep it under control,” Boone explained. Stanton has not completed a full season without a trip to the injured list since 2018, making this management approach crucial for both his health and the team’s performance. The Yankees are keen to ensure that Stanton is in the best possible condition for the long haul, as his power and presence in the lineup are essential, especially after the departure of Juan Soto.
Trent Grisham’s Progress
In other news, outfielder Trent Grisham, who recently pulled his left hamstring during training, is showing promising signs of recovery. According to Boone, Grisham is running at close to full speed and should not be too far behind the rest of the team. “He’s been working hard, and we’re optimistic about his progress,” Boone said. The injury occurred a few weeks ago, but Grisham’s determination and physical condition indicate that he should be ready to join the squad soon. His return will be a significant boost to the Yankees’ outfield depth and overall team dynamics.
Position Players Reporting for Spring Training
As the Yankees position players reported to spring training ahead of Monday’s first full-squad workout, the focus was on preparing the team for the new season while managing the health of their key players. Boone acknowledged that Stanton’s situation adds a layer of complexity to this preparatory phase. “We’re just trying to be smart and not rush anything,” he said. The team is committed to a balanced and sustainable approach to player health, recognizing that a well-managed spring training can set the tone for the entire season. With the departure of Juan Soto, the Yankees are relying heavily on Stanton and other core players to maintain their competitive edge.
Stanton’s Importance to the Yankees
Stanton’s contributions to the Yankees cannot be overstated. After signing a then-record $325 million, 13-year contract with the Miami Marlins ahead of the 2015 season, he went on to win the National League MVP in 2017 with 59 homers and 132 RBIs. His acquisition by the Yankees in December 2017 saw him hit 38 homers and 100 RBIs in his first season with the team. Despite a series of injuries over the past five seasons, Stanton’s performance in the 2023 season was remarkable. He slimmed down and managed to hit 27 homers and 72 RBIs in 114 games, proving his value as a big right-handed bat in the lineup. “He’s huge for us,” Boone said. “Losing him would make us unbalanced, and his postseason performance was a testament to his importance.”
Ausmus’s Injured Hamstring and Boone’s Quip
Adding a lighter note to the otherwise serious discussion, Bench Coach Brad Ausmus pulled a hamstring badly in a pickup basketball game on Saturday. Boone, known for his dry wit, referenced his own January 2004 injury, when he tore his left ACL in a similar basketball game and missed the entire season, leading to the Yankees acquiring Alex Rodriguez from Texas. “Obviously, I advise them not to do that, but he wanted to take his 55-year-old act out there anyway,” Boone quipped. Ausmus, a former manager of Detroit and the Los Angeles Angels, is expected to recover in time for the season, but the incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of sports injuries, even off the field. The Yankees will continue to monitor both Stanton and Ausmus closely, ensuring that they are both in top form for the season ahead.
