Giancarlo Stanton has been reinstated from the injured list and will make his season debut against the Los Angeles Angels. The 35-year-old slugger had been sidelined with tendon injuries in both elbows but began a rehab assignment last week, appearing in three games for Double-A Somerset.
The Yankees’ offense has thrived despite Stanton’s absence, ranking second in the majors with a 123 wRC+ and .794 OPS. However, Stanton’s return will create a lineup puzzle for manager Aaron Boone, particularly in the DH slot and outfield where he shares spots with Aaron Judge and three other players.
To alleviate the logjam, Boone mentioned that Ben Rice could start games at catcher to get his bat in the lineup more often. Austin Wells has been splitting time behind the plate with J.C. Escarra this season, but Rice is a possibility for additional catching duties.
The Yankees also made room on their active roster by designating utility man Pablo Reyes for assignment. Additionally, manager Aaron Boone announced that right-hander Jake Cousins will undergo Tommy John surgery on Wednesday.
Source: https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/45524587/sources-yankees-giancarlo-stanton-make-debut-vs-angels