Yankees’ Manager Makes Key Decisions for Sunday Game

Just two days after some deliberation, Yankees manager Aaron Boone made a significant call.

On Sunday, he contemplated the idea of having Giancarlo Stanton play right field for consecutive games but ultimately decided against it. However, on Tuesday, he opted to start Stanton back in right field for the second game in a row — a move that paid off as Stanton logged four hits and three RBIs during a dominant 9-1 win.

“He clearly wanted to keep his bat active,” Boone remarked, highlighting Stanton’s determination.

At 35, Stanton returned to right field after a long hiatus since September 2023. This move was vital, especially since Aaron Judge is still sidelined with an elbow issue, meaning he isn’t ready to take the field just yet.

Although Stanton hasn’t faced significant challenges defensively, having his potent bat in the lineup is crucial for the team.

“It’s a big deal for him. G is here to win. There are various factors throughout the season that require adjustments or a shift in strategy,” Boone explained. “Eventually, when Judge is back, it will provide more options for the team, and he understands how important this is.”

As for Judge, there aren’t any set return dates, although Boone didn’t dismiss the possibility of him playing against the Cardinals this weekend. Judge mentioned that his elbow has reacted positively to throwing exercises but deferred any timeline questions to the trainers.

Having had ten days off without throwing is a bit out of the ordinary, according to Judge, who expressed optimism about his recovery. “We’re making progress,” he said. “Hopefully, it won’t be long until I’m back. I know G isn’t entirely comfortable out in right field.”

Stanton, on the other hand, seems content to be out there for now. “One of my favorite parts is getting gloves from the fans, so I try to keep things lively,” he said, smiling.

Meanwhile, reliever Jonathan Roashga, who has been on the injured list since August 3, enjoyed a successful bullpen session on Tuesday. Boone indicated that Roashga would likely be coming back soon as he hadn’t been out for an extended period.

“He should be in the mix shortly,” Boone noted, adding that they hadn’t yet decided if any minor league rehab assignments were necessary for Roashga’s return.

In other team news, Austin Wells was benched for the third time in four games and was replaced by Ben Rice behind the plate. Boone mentioned that Wells would start as catcher in the series finale on Wednesday.