Yankees' Stanton Returns After Tennis Elbow Recovery

Giancarlo Stanton is set to return to the New York Yankees lineup as the designated hitter in the series against the Los Angeles Angels on Monday, following a lengthy absence due to tennis elbow in both arms that required multiple platelet-rich plasma injections. The Yankees deliberately delayed Stanton's return, choosing not to rush him back for games against the Red Sox to prioritize his long-term health. Stanton's comeback is expected to further strengthen a Yankees offense that leads MLB in home runs and ranks second in wRC+. Manager Aaron Boone faces lineup challenges due to Stanton's restriction to the DH role, which reduces positional flexibility. Ben Rice, who has excelled at DH during Stanton's absence, is expected to continue receiving regular at-bats by rotating between DH, first base, and catcher. The Yankees are aiming to solidify their lead in the American League East with Stanton's return.