Stanton Nears Yankees Return After Season-Long Injury

Giancarlo Stanton of the New York Yankees has missed the entire season so far due to elbow tendinitis but is making progress, recently taking live and on-field batting practice for the first time this year. Stanton acknowledged lingering elbow pain but expressed readiness to play if called upon, also noting frustration with ongoing questions about his health. Manager Aaron Boone confirmed Stanton's rehab is unique since he will return as a designated hitter and does not require fielding preparation, with the team not ruling out activation from the 60-day injured list when first eligible at the end of May. Both team and player are optimistic for a return in late May or early June, though there is no set timeline for a rehab assignment. The Yankees' offense has been strong in Stanton's absence, particularly with Ben Rice excelling as DH. Stanton's return will create decisions for the Yankees on how to share DH responsibilities between him and Rice.