By Josh Davis | April 18, 2025 – 2:37 AM ET
The New York Yankees are gaining momentum in the 2025 MLB season, and the return of two key veterans could elevate them even further.
Both Giancarlo Stanton and DJ LeMahieu are making significant strides in their recoveries, injecting fresh optimism into the Bronx.
Stanton, a five-time All-Star, has been sidelined since mid-February due to tennis elbow in both arms. Though he’s yet to return to full activity, manager Aaron Boone recently told reporters ahead of Sunday’s game against the San Francisco Giants that the power-hitting DH is “getting close.”
Stanton is currently swinging off a Trajekt machine—a positive sign for his recovery, as reported by the New York Daily News.
Despite the injury, Stanton made a major impact during last year’s postseason, launching seven home runs in 14 games en route to ALCS MVP honors.
Upon returning, he is expected to resume his role as designated hitter, a spot currently being filled by promising rookie Ben Rice, who has started 12 of the Yankees’ last 14 games.
Meanwhile, DJ LeMahieu is progressing in his recovery from a nagging left-calf injury. Boone confirmed Thursday that the 36-year-old infielder could begin a minor league rehab assignment as early as next week. LeMahieu previously told NorthJersey.com’s Pete Caldera that the injury isn’t serious, but it will take some time before he’s back at full strength.
LeMahieu is looking to bounce back from a difficult 2024 campaign, in which injuries limited him to just 67 games and a career-worst .204 batting average. His return could provide a major boost in stability and versatility for the Yankees’ infield.
With both veterans nearing activation, the Yankees may soon field their most complete roster yet. As they continue to chase dominance in the AL East, the looming returns of Stanton and LeMahieu could be the key to unlocking their full potential.be
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