Spring training wasn’t a smooth ride for the New York Yankees. But this spell might just break because the one who can change the course of a game with his swings might take “not too long” to be back. Yes, you guessed that right! We have positive updates on Giancarlo Stanton!

With the Opening Day just minutes away, we now have an update from the NYM Skipper Aaron Boone.

In a video posted by SNY, Boone informed reporters that “He’s doing pretty well. I think we’ve all been encouraged by the last couple of weeks.” While no specific timeline has been given for his return, it was said that “He’s been able to swing the bat and feel like there’s been some steady improvement day after day.”

Well, this marks a vital turning point, as a healthy Stanton remains a legitimate power threat. The team, after an offseason of uncertainty, are banking on the talent staying on the field. Boone’s review highlights that the team thinks Stanton can still be a vital helper—if he can overcome his durability issues.

Giancarlo Stanton’s battle with injuries has become an all-too-familiar storyline for the Yankees and 2025 is proving to be no different. This time, the slugger is dealing with severe tendinitis in both elbows—a condition he links to changes in his batting mechanics last season. The lingering pain has kept him out of action since mid-January, limiting his ability to swing and forcing the Yankees to take a cautious approach with his recovery.

To accelerate healing, Stanton has undergone multiple platelet-rich plasma injections, a common treatment for inflammation-related injuries. However, progress has been slow, and as of late March, he remains on the 10-day injured list with no definitive return date. The Yankees are monitoring his rehab closely, knowing that a fully healthy Stanton could be a game-changer for their lineup. But with his recent injury history, the looming question remains—how long can he stay on the field once he returns?

Stanton’s contract vs. his future – The New York Yankees dilemma

Giancarlo Stanton’s contract with the Yankees was never just related to home runs and RBIs—it was a long-period bet on sustained dominance. However, with his body breaking down and his production slipping, the Yankees are facing an uncomfortable truth, is waiting for a resurgence worth the cost? Is it time to began to plan for life without him?

The biggest roadblock to any drastic transformation? Stanton’s full no-trade clause. The Yankees can not move him unless he agrees and at this point, there is little reason to think he would. That leaves two options, adjust his role and consider a buyout.

A current Yahoo Sports report highlighted that his future in New York is anything but certain if he does not turn things around in 2025. One outcome could be limiting his at-bats, specifically against tough right-handed pitchers. His .191 batting average against righties in 2024 says he is struggling in those matchups. So a platoon-like, approach could keep him more effective.

Then there is the leadership aspect. Stanton remains a respected presence in the clubhouse. Younger talents, like, Anthony Volpe and Jasson Domínguez have praised his work ethic, which adds value beyond the box score. But how much is that worth when his 6-year, $160 million contract is restricting financial flexibility?

The Yankees best-case situation is simple. Stanton stays healthy and taps in the form he highlighted in the second half of 2024, with .278 AVG and .920 OPS. If that happens, he is still a game-changer. If not, tough interaction related to his future will be impossible to avoid.