Yankees Outfield Shuffle: Giancarlo Stanton With Aaron Judge

The New York Yankees are set to make a notable adjustment in their lineup. Giancarlo Stanton will return to right field on Tuesday against the Tampa Bay Rays at Steinbrenner Field.

This will be Stanton’s first time in the outfield since lower-body soreness kept him out defensively over the weekend. With Aaron Judge still limited to designated hitter duties because of injury, the Yankees are juggling lineup flexibility and player health at a pretty crucial time.

Stanton’s Gradual Return to the Outfield

Last week, Stanton played three straight defensive games for the first time since 2022. That stretch left him sore, so he sat out the field during the Yankees’ series in St. Louis.

Manager Aaron Boone says getting Stanton back in right field is all about weighing risk and reward. Boone wants to keep Stanton’s bat in the lineup but knows they have to watch his workload.

Why Steinbrenner Field is the Chosen Spot

The Yankees care a lot about where Stanton plays outfield. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa has the same dimensions as Yankee Stadium, which makes things more predictable for Stanton defensively.

They hope this consistency helps him avoid aggravating his soreness. Maybe it’ll let him build up stamina in the field without pushing too hard.

The Aaron Judge Factor

Stanton’s defensive return feels more urgent with Aaron Judge still limited. Judge is recovering from a right flexor strain and hasn’t played the outfield yet.

He’s throwing again—up to 150 feet—but hasn’t started throwing to bases. The timeline for his defensive return is still up in the air.

Balancing the DH Spot

With Judge stuck at DH, Boone has fewer ways to rest other players. Stanton playing right field opens up the DH spot for others who need a break from defense.

This extra flexibility could matter a lot with tough divisional games coming up. The Yankees need every edge they can get right now.

Managing Stanton’s Health Like Spring Training

Boone compares Stanton’s situation to early spring training. Players have to ease back into game shape to avoid setbacks.

With Stanton’s injury history, the Yankees are being careful about his workload. It’s a strategic move, not just luck or guesswork.

Stanton’s Mindset in a Crucial Stretch

Stanton knows this is a “critical stretch” for the Yankees’ playoff hopes. He won’t say exactly what triggered his soreness, but he’s focused on helping the team however he can—bat, glove, whatever.

He’s willing to play through some discomfort. That says a lot about his leadership and commitment, honestly.

Looking Ahead

The Yankees’ choice to put Stanton back in right field is a calculated risk. It adds punch and flexibility to their lineup, but there’s always the chance of another setback.

With Judge’s outfield return still uncertain, the team has to manage both stars’ health carefully. There’s no easy answer, but they’ll have to figure it out as they go.

Key Takeaways for Yankees Fans

Here’s what to watch heading into Tuesday’s game:

• Stanton’s Defensive Performance: Keep an eye on how he moves in right field, especially late in the game. You might spot something that hints at his readiness or lingering issues.
• Judge’s Throwing Progress: If Judge starts throwing to bases with more confidence, maybe he’s close to heading back to the outfield. It’s something to hope for.
• Lineup Flexibility: With Stanton playing the field again, Boone can finally rotate guys through the DH slot a bit more. That should help keep everyone fresh.
• Health Management: The Yankees plan to watch Stanton closely to make sure he doesn’t aggravate his soreness. Nobody wants to see another setback now.

This stretch feels huge. Every move—especially with the big names—could shape how the postseason shakes out for the Yankees.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Yankees’ outfield shuffle continues with new plan for Giancarlo…