Yankees Surge with Stanton’s Return
The New York Yankees lead MLB in home runs and boast the second-best offense by wRC+. Their stats could improve even further with the activation of Giancarlo Stanton off the injured list for Monday’s game against the Los Angeles Angels. Utility player Pablo Reyes has been designated for assignment.
Stanton’s Comeback
Stanton has been sidelined all season due to tennis elbow in both arms, which was diagnosed during the offseason. He previously mentioned experiencing “very high” pain levels while swinging a bat and acknowledged that this injury is something he may have to manage for the rest of his career.
Impact on the Lineup
After recently playing three games with Double-A Somerset as part of his rehab, Stanton is set to return, making team manager Aaron Boone’s daily lineup decisions a hot topic. With Stanton back, the Yankees could have at least two above-average hitters on their bench, provided everyone stays healthy. Notably, the team features 11 players with a 100 wRC+ or better.
Designated Hitter Dynamics
Stanton’s role as designated hitter limits the team’s positional flexibility. Ben Rice leads the Yankees in plate appearances at DH and should continue to be a significant presence. His wRC+ stands at 117 despite being among the unluckiest hitters, with impressive xwOBA rankings fueling expectations for positive regression.
Strategic Options for Rice
One strategy Boone mentioned during a series in Kansas City is to start Rice at catcher on some occasions. This can elevate his participation, as starting catcher Austin Wells does not play every day. If Rice proves defensively adequate, he must be in the lineup due to his advanced hitting skills.
First Base Decisions
Additionally, Rice could rotate at first base with Paul Goldschmidt, a viable option since Rice has a 132 wRC+ against right-handed pitchers compared to Goldschmidt’s 91. Goldschmidt excels against left-handed pitchers, leading to more tactical considerations for Boone in maximizing offensive production.
Outfield Conundrums
As Stanton is expected to command most of the DH at-bats, Boone will need to navigate the playing time among four outfielders. While Aaron Judge and Cody Bellinger will start daily, the final spot comes down to Trent Grisham or Jasson Domínguez. This decision is complicated, but Boone may opt for a blend to utilize their strengths effectively.
Conclusion
In designating Reyes for assignment to accommodate Stanton, general manager Brian Cashman made a clear choice. Although Reyes contributed minimally, he did score the only run in a recent game. Regardless of how Boone decides to arrange the lineup, having multiple strong players vying for at-bats is a welcome challenge for the Yankees.
(Photo: Ed Zurga / Getty Images)
