Giancarlo Stanton’s Uncertain Start to the Season: A Deep Dive into the Yankees’ Slugger’s Health Concerns
As the New York Yankees gear up for another promising season, fans and analysts alike are turning their attention to one of the team’s most formidable players, Giancarlo Stanton. The five-time All-Star, known for his powerful swings and game-changing home runs, has recently revealed a concerning health issue that could impact his readiness for the upcoming season.
In a candid conversation on Monday, just before the Yankees’ first full-squad workout, Stanton shared that he hasn’t swung a bat in three or four weeks. The reason? Painful tendinitis in both elbows, a condition that has left him uncertain about his availability for Opening Day. This revelation comes as a surprise to many, especially considering Stanton’s crucial role in helping the Yankees reach the World Series last season for the first time since 2009.
Playing Through Pain: Stanton’s Struggle Last Season
Reflecting on the previous season, Stanton admitted that he played through significant pain. “Tennis elbow or however they call it is tears in tendon, so it’s not when did it feel good, when did it feel bad. There’s always the pain level there, and you got to deal with that. So, yeah, it’s just the wisest point to give time right now,” Stanton explained. His words paint a picture of a player who has been battling through discomfort, prioritizing the team’s success over his own well-being.
When asked about his chances of playing in the American League champions’ March 27 opener against Milwaukee, Stanton remained non-committal. “Definitely behind, but I mean that’s just a matter of being ready for a full go today as opposed to in a little bit. So we have five, six weeks here. It’ll be a good ramp-up from there,” he said. “We’ll see how that goes.”
Stanton’s Performance Amidst Adversity
Despite the physical challenges, Stanton managed to deliver a commendable performance last year. He hit .233 with 27 homers and 72 RBIs while playing 114 games. His season, however, was not without interruptions. A strained left hamstring sidelined him between June 22 and July 29, adding to the list of physical hurdles he had to overcome. Yet, Stanton’s resilience shone through in the postseason, where he batted .273 with seven homers and 16 RBIs.
Looking Ahead: Stanton’s Path to Recovery
As Stanton, who turned 35 in November, navigates his recovery, the Yankees and their fans are left to ponder the implications of his absence. The slugger’s health is undoubtedly a priority, and his decision to take time off to heal is a wise one. “Definitely not just soreness. It’s a manageable thing,” Stanton reassured, indicating that while the pain is significant, it is something he can work through with proper care and time.
- Stanton hasn’t swung a bat in three or four weeks due to tendinitis in both elbows.
- He played in pain for much of last season, contributing to the Yankees’ World Series run.
- Stanton’s availability for Opening Day remains uncertain.
- Despite injuries, he hit .233 with 27 homers and 72 RBIs last season.
- Stanton batted .273 with seven homers and 16 RBIs in the postseason.
As the countdown to Opening Day continues, all eyes will be on Stanton’s progress. The Yankees’ success this season could hinge on his ability to return to form, and fans are hopeful that the slugger will be back in action sooner rather than later. Until then, the team will have to prepare for the possibility of starting the season without one of their key players.
Originally Written by: ESPN.com
