Giancarlo Stanton and Cody Bellinger are nearing their returns to the New York Yankees lineup, though their exact availability remains uncertain. Manager Aaron Boone indicated that both players are "getting closer" to rejoining the team.
Stanton, the designated hitter, ran the bases for the first time since suffering a calf strain in June. This marks a significant step in his recovery, indicating he is in the final stages before a potential return, which could include a rehab assignment. Boone described Stanton's progress as positive but declined to offer a specific timeline for his activation.
Outfielder Cody Bellinger is also showing progress from a hamstring strain that occurred approximately two and a half weeks ago. Bellinger has been engaged in pregame outfield drills, including agility work and shagging fly balls. Boone noted that Bellinger is running at over 90 percent of his top speed and feels good, though he still experiences some tightness in certain movements. The team hopes he will overcome this in the coming week as his intensity ramps up.
Meanwhile, the Yankees have placed pitcher Kervin Castro on the 15-day injured list due to right elbow neuritis. Right-handed pitcher Bradley Hanner has been called up from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre to fill the roster spot. Hanner has posted a 2.10 ERA in 51 1/3 innings for Scranton this season.
In other injury news, pitcher Luis Gil began a rehab assignment with High-A Hudson Valley, throwing a scoreless inning in his first appearance since early May. Gil has been sidelined with shoulder inflammation and could potentially be used out of the bullpen upon his return. Pitcher Carlos Rodón is scheduled to make his second rehab start on Thursday with Double-A Somerset. Rodón struggled in his first rehab outing, allowing runs in 2 2/3 innings.