MLB9 hours ago2 minute read

Yankees Injury Updates: Stanton and Grisham Build Towards Playoff Return

Giancarlo Stanton and Trent Grisham are working their way back from injuries as the Yankees prepare for the postseason.

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Stanton and Grisham make progress

The New York Yankees could get some help back for the playoffs. Slugger Giancarlo Stanton and center fielder Trent Grisham both took steps toward returning on Wednesday. They faced pitchers and ran the bases at Double A Somerset. Stanton even hit a home run while taking six or seven at-bats.

Stanton has been out for five and a half months with calf strains in both legs. Grisham has been sidelined since straining his right hamstring on Sept. 4. Yankees manager Aaron Boone said they are "putting them on the outskirts of the conversation" for the postseason roster.

Playoff plans and pitcher status

New York is likely to host Boston in a best of three wild card series starting Tuesday. The Yankees are already playing without star Aaron Judge due to a strained calf. Because of Stanton's long layoff, Boone noted that "you're looking more at a pinch hit scenario" if the slugger is healthy enough to make the roster.

The team is also tracking several pitchers. Right hander Clarke Schmidt is dealing with biceps cramps and might not be a viable option for the postseason bullpen. Meanwhile, right hander Fernando Cruz is trying to return from elbow discomfort. Cam Schlittler and Max Fried are lined up to start the first two playoff games, with Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodon ready for Game 3.

Defensive adjustments

With second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr. back from a thumb sprain, Boone plans to use Anthony Volpe at third base at times. Volpe has been hitting .263 with one home run since his recall from Triple A. He recently played three games at third base in the minors and said it did not feel too bad.

What it means for the next game

Tampa Bay Rays at New York Yankees (MLB, Thu, 24 Sep): New York Yankees win 56%, Tampa Bay Rays win 44%; projected score New York Yankees 4, Tampa Bay Rays 4. Our safest pick: Yankees +1.5.

Baltimore Orioles at New York Yankees (MLB, Fri, 25 Sep): New York Yankees win 61%, Baltimore Orioles win 39%; projected score New York Yankees 5, Baltimore Orioles 4. Our safest pick: Orioles +3.5.