The New York Yankees are facing a unique dilemma as Giancarlo Stanton nears his return, potentially by the end of the month. Despite his injury history, Stanton remains one of the team’s most impactful hitters and undeniably strengthens the lineup when healthy.
Stanton took live batting practice earlier this week—his first since being sidelined with elbow tendinitis in both arms during spring training. ESPN’s Jorge Castillo noted that this was a major step toward Stanton’s return, with the slugger confirming he could rejoin the lineup before May ends.
But Stanton’s comeback raises questions—most notably, what happens to Ben Rice?
Rice has made a strong case to stay in the everyday lineup. According to The Sporting News’ Aaliyan Mohammed, Rice has “earned the right to be an everyday player” and his performance—batting .254 with 8 homers, 8 doubles, and a 154 OPS+—backs that up.
The challenge is Stanton’s limited ability to play the field due to past injuries. He’s expected to primarily DH, which would block Rice from that spot. To keep Rice’s bat in the lineup, the Yankees may need to get creative—perhaps using him as a super-utility player.
He could fill in at first base when Paul Goldschmidt rests, or even catch on days Austin Wells sits. Another option could be experimenting with Rice at third base, though that would’ve been easier to prepare for in spring training.
Stanton, by reputation and contract, is likely to play daily if healthy. But with Rice producing the way he has, the Yankees must weigh current performance against proven talent.
It’s a good problem to have—but one that needs solving fast.
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