The New York Yankees are brimming with optimism as the 2025 MLB season heats up, with two key veterans — Giancarlo Stanton and DJ LeMahieu — nearing their long-awaited returns. As anticipation builds at Yankee Stadium, fans are imagining a lineup re-energized by Stanton’s raw power and LeMahieu’s steady versatility. Manager Aaron Boone’s recent updates on both players have only fueled hope that the Yankees are about to hit their stride in a competitive AL East race.
Stanton, sidelined since mid-February due to tennis elbow in both arms, is steadily making progress. Before Sunday’s matchup against the Giants, Boone expressed encouragement, saying, “He’s getting close.” Stanton has reportedly begun hitting off a Trajekt machine, signaling that a return could be on the horizon, according to the New York Daily News. While there’s still no exact timeline, his return could inject serious power back into the heart of the order.
Despite battling through similar injuries last October, Stanton delivered an incredible performance, blasting seven home runs in 14 games and earning ALCS MVP honors. Upon his return, he’ll likely continue as a designated hitter, a role he’s held since last season. That may create a rotation with rookie Ben Rice, who has held down the DH spot admirably, starting 12 of the last 14 games for the Yankees.
On the infield side, DJ LeMahieu is also showing progress as he recovers from a nagging left calf injury. Boone indicated on Thursday that the 36-year-old could begin a minor league rehab assignment as soon as next week, depending on how things progress. LeMahieu had previously told NorthJersey.com’s Pete Caldera that the injury wasn’t serious, though it would require some time. After being limited to just 67 games in 2024 and hitting a career-low .204, a healthy LeMahieu could be a game-changer.
Together, the potential returns of Stanton and LeMahieu represent a major boost for the Yankees, who are looking to fire on all cylinders as they push toward the summer stretch and continue chasing postseason glory.
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