The New York Yankees are navigating a tough start to their season with Giancarlo Stanton sidelined due to tendinitis in both elbows. General Manager Brian Cashman confirmed that Stanton received his second round of platelet-rich plasma injections and will join the team in Tampa but won't participate in baseball activities. Stanton, who had a challenging previous season, is anticipated to begin the 2025 MLB season on the injured list, which may limit his impact on the Yankees lineup.

Cashman revealed that Stanton only voiced his elbow discomfort shortly before spring training, raising questions about offseason medical decisions. The Yankees are discussing surgery as a last resort, which would require significant recovery time, further complicating their lineup dynamics, especially with Aaron Judge potentially taking on more duties as the designated hitter.

Giancarlo Stanton of the New York Yankees is undergoing platelet-rich plasma injections to help with his elbow tendinitis, a condition that has troubled him since last season. General Manager Brian Cashman reported that Stanton didn't express issues until shortly before spring training, leading to a delayed response. Stanton is expected to begin the 2025 MLB season on the injured list and has been unable to engage in baseball activities, which impacts his game readiness.

Despite his struggles, Stanton had a notable postseason last year. In his absence, Aaron Judge and others will seek to fill the void at designated hitter. The Yankees hope to have a healthy Stanton back as they aim for success in the upcoming season.

The New York Yankees are gearing up for their Grapefruit League matchup against the Minnesota Twins with a lineup that closely resembles what fans might expect on Opening Day. Catcher Austin Wells will be leading off, with Aaron Judge taking on designated hitter duties. Veteran sluggers Cody Bellinger and Paul Goldschmidt are also in the lineup, with Jazz Chisholm Jr., Anthony Volpe, and Jasson Dominguez filling key infield and outfield positions. Giancarlo Stanton, however, will be sidelined due to elbow injuries, and DJ LeMahieu is currently shut down from baseball activities.

This potential Opening Day lineup marks a historic moment for the Yankees as it would be the first time a catcher bats leadoff in a regular-season game. Wells, drafted in the first round in 2020, made his MLB debut in 2023 and became a key contributor last season. With the additions of Goldschmidt and Bellinger, the Yankees aim to rebound from last year's playoff exit against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Dominic Smith is seizing his chance with the New York Yankees this spring, showcasing his skills as injuries hit key players. With Giancarlo Stanton sidelined and DJ LeMahieu struggling with calf issues, Smith's performance, including two home runs and seven RBIs in five games, positions him as a potential asset for the Yankees' Opening Day roster. Manager Aaron Boone acknowledges that while Smith may need an opening, his history as a strong hitter adds value to the team.

Despite exhibition stats being somewhat misleading, Boone praises Smith's physical condition and overall hitting capability. His versatility, having played both left field and first base, could provide the Yankees with needed depth. Smith's previous success, with a solid OPS during his best years with the Mets, adds to his appeal, but the challenge remains to overcome past inconsistencies and secure a more permanent role on the Yankees.

As spring training unfolds, the New York Yankees face mounting challenges as injuries to key players threaten their season expectations. Giancarlo Stanton has been sidelined with elbow issues, and Luis Gil is out due to a shoulder injury, leaving significant gaps in the roster. With both a middle-of-the-order hitter and the reigning American League Rookie of the Year unavailable, the team is exploring internal options to fill these crucial roles.

Ben Rice, a 25-year-old promising player, is emerging as a strong candidate for the designated hitter position. Additionally, veteran slugger Dominic Smith, who has had a solid career but faced a downturn last season with the Boston Red Sox and Cincinnati Reds, is also in consideration for the Opening Day roster. Despite not being on the 40-man roster, Smith has demonstrated his potential during spring training, hitting two home runs in just four games. His ability to play both first base and left field could provide the Yankees with the necessary versatility while they await Stanton's return.