Giancarlo Stanton Awaits ALDS Decision After Wild-Card Snub
The slugger declared himself ready for any role, but the Yankees must decide if they need his bat against the Rays.
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Giancarlo Stanton stated he is “ready to go, however they need me” as the New York Yankees weigh whether to activate him for the American League Division Series against the Tampa Bay Rays.
The veteran slugger, who returned from three calf strains to be available for the wild-card series, did not play in the Yankees' sweep of the Boston Red Sox. With rosters due Saturday before Game 1, manager Aaron Boone indicated Friday that the team had not yet made a final decision on Stanton's inclusion.
Boone noted that the Yankees are considering carrying 10 to 12 pitchers for the best-of-five ALDS, a shift from the 10 pitchers and 16 position players used in the wild-card round. This potential increase in pitching staff could impact the number of available spots for position players.
Furthermore, the Yankees' matchup against the righty-heavy Rays differs from their series against the left-handed pitching of Boston. This change in opponent may lessen the need for a right-handed pinch-hitter like Stanton, especially if outfielder Aaron Judge is able to return and potentially fill that role.
Stanton, who has not had an at-bat in a major league game since April 24, acknowledged the benefit of game action for timing. However, he emphasized his priority was the team's success, stating, “I prefer to get two wins and be here now.”
Despite not being used against the Red Sox, Stanton maintained a positive outlook. “I’m ready to help the team any way I can,” he said, declining to elaborate on his recovery process. Stanton, who owns a career .926 OPS with 18 home runs in 48 postseason games, expressed his eagerness to perform in October.
“If there’s any time to erase a bad year, it’s in October,” Stanton said. “So it’s the biggest opportunity to just show out for the city and do all we can do.”