Big-hitting American baseball star Giancarlo Stanton will begin a rehab stint with the Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees’ Double-A affiliate, this Tuesday as he gears up for a return to Major League Baseball.
Stanton, known for his raw power at the plate, has not played a single game this season due to tendinitis in both elbows – a lingering issue that started in 2024 and disrupted his off-season training. Since then, he’s been working hard behind the scenes at the Yankees’ player development complex, putting in long hours to get back into shape.
Although Stanton has battled several injuries over the past seven years, the 35-year-old proved during last season’s playoffs that he still has what it takes. He smashed seven home runs and posted a 1.048 OPS over 14 postseason matches, helping the Yankees reach their first World Series since 2009. He was also named the American League Championship Series MVP for his efforts.
Even without Stanton and after losing Juan Soto to free agency, the Yankees haven’t slowed down. They currently lead all Major League teams in home runs with 105 and top the American League in total runs scored this season with 349.
In Stanton’s absence, Ben Rice has stepped into the role of designated hitter and impressed early on, belting 12 home runs and notching an .825 OPS. However, his form has dipped in recent weeks – over his last 20 games, he’s managed a batting line of just .206/.247/.368 heading into the Yankees’ latest series against the Kansas City Royals.
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