Giancarlo Stanton Expected to Return to Yankees by May 27

New York Yankees designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton is making progress toward returning from elbow tendinitis in both arms and could rejoin the team by the end of May, with the earliest possible date being May 27 due to his placement on the 60-day injured list. Stanton recently participated in live batting practice, marking his first exposure to live pitching this season, and is expected to undertake a short rehab assignment before returning to the lineup, given his role as a DH without defensive duties. Despite his injuries, Stanton has maintained a positive outlook, emphasizing that if he is on the field, he is fit to play, although he acknowledges he will have to manage pain. Yankees manager Aaron Boone expressed confidence in Stanton’s readiness and productivity upon return and hopes that offseason conditioning will help Stanton better withstand physical demands. Stanton’s elbow issues date back to the previous season, where he played through pain during the World Series, and he only resumed swinging in March after stopping in January due to severe pain. The Yankees have performed well offensively in Stanton's absence, leading the American League in runs scored as of early May, with strong contributions from other players, including Aaron Judge.