New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone has offered an optimistic update on Giancarlo Stanton's recovery, suggesting the slugger is progressing well from a pair of calf strains that have sidelined him since April 24. Stanton has "started the introduction to some bases" in a light capacity, according to Boone, a step that typically precedes a minor league rehab assignment or a full return to the active roster.
Stanton had previously been running bases in June, but reinjured his calf during that period. Boone, who has been characteristically vague about the status of both Stanton and fellow outfielder Aaron Judge, declined to provide a specific timeline for Stanton's return. "He'll be there when we get him there," Boone stated. He also indicated that Stanton had faced live pitching for the first time this week since suffering his second calf strain.
Despite the ambiguity surrounding Stanton's return, Boone confirmed the outfielder is "doing quite well." The manager expressed uncertainty about whether Stanton would be back in a week or a month, emphasizing he would not engage in predictions about the timing.
In other Yankees news, pitcher Gerrit Cole delivered a strong performance, throwing seven innings and allowing two runs on six hits with no walks and nine strikeouts. Cole achieved his 1,000th strikeout as a Yankee during the game, a milestone he credited to better fastball command and a resilient approach when facing adversity. He acknowledged the significance of reaching the mark on Old-Timers' Day at home, calling the experience "really cool."
Carlos Rodón, recovering from elbow inflammation, made his first rehab start with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. He allowed three runs on three hits and two walks while striking out four in 2 2/3 innings, throwing 48 pitches. Rodón is expected to require only one or two minor league outings before being activated.