New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone has indicated that star designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton has not been ruled out for the remainder of the 2026 MLB season, offering a glimmer of hope that the veteran slugger could return before the postseason.
It would be a big boost to a Yankees team that lacks right-handed power. Even when Aaron Judge comes back, the starting lineup is primarily left-handed.
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Stanton’s return remains possible
MLB: Athletics at New York Yankees
Apr 8, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton (27) at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
Stanton last appeared for the Yankees on April 24, when he experienced tightness in his right calf while running the bases. The injury has kept the 36-year-old sidelined for 116 games, continuing a frustrating stretch of lower-body problems that have limited his availability in recent seasons.
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Stanton has not played close to a full 162-game season since 2018, and his latest setback has added to concerns about whether he can make a meaningful return this year. The two-time Silver Slugger winner appeared to be progressing toward an earlier comeback, but suffered another setback in late August.
The Yankees subsequently placed Stanton on the 60-day injured list on August 25, making his potential return timeline even more uncertain. Despite those challenges, Boone’s latest update suggests the door remains open for Stanton to rejoin New York before the season concludes.
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Yankees maintain strong position
Mar 31, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; New York Yankees designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton (27) stands on second base after hitting an RBI double against the Seattle Mariners during the sixth inning at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: John Froschauer-Imagn Images
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Before his injury, Stanton had made an encouraging start to the 2026 campaign. He recorded 23 hits in 24 games and was batting .256 with 14 RBI and three home runs when he landed on the injured list.
Stanton is earning $29 million this season and is scheduled to make $25 million in 2027. The Yankees also hold a $25 million team option for 2028, with a $10 million buyout, adding another layer to the veteran slugger’s future in New York.
Meanwhile, the Yankees remain in a strong position as they push toward October. New York holds an 8.5-game lead atop the American League Wild Card race and will have a day off before beginning a three-game home series against the Colorado Rockies on Tuesday.
With the postseason approaching, a healthy Stanton could provide another powerful bat to a Yankees lineup already positioned for a deep October run.
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