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.

Giancarlo Stanton's recent elbow injuries have left the New York Yankees in a precarious position as the season approaches. Stanton, who was a key contributor in the postseason with seven home runs last year, will start this season on the injured list. His absence raises significant concerns for the defending American League champions, especially with the recent departures and roster changes. Aaron Boone, the Yankees' manager, noted Stanton's leave from training was personal and not related to his elbow issues, further complicating his return timeline.

With Stanton sidelined, questions loom about the Yankees' lineup structure. DJ LeMahieu's calf injury exacerbates the situation as the team explores third base options, likely shifting to a platoon between Oswaldo Cabrera and Oswald Peraza. Meanwhile, the search for a lead-off hitter is on, with Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Anthony Volpe as potential candidates. The Yankees are adjusting their strategies on the fly but will have to navigate these challenges without their star slugger.

The fantasy baseball preseason is heating up as spring training unfolds. With lineup competitions intensifying, key injuries and performances are shaping draft strategies. Chicago White Sox outfielder Andrew Benintendi is dealing with a fractured right hand but might be ready for Opening Day, although his fantasy value has waned since 2021. The New York Yankees' Luis Gil is sidelined with shoulder tightness, affecting his draft stock, while Giancarlo Stanton’s tendinitis will keep him out for the start of the season, prompting significant downgrades for fantasy managers. Meanwhile, Milwaukee's Trevor Megill has made his spring debut after an injury and Cincinnati's Spencer Steer is recovering from a shoulder injury, indicating cautious optimism for his return. Lastly, Texas Rangers pitcher Kumar Rocker struggles in spring training, raising questions about his draft viability.