NEW YORK — Giancarlo Stanton put on a show under the Bronx lights Tuesday night, carrying the New York Yankees past the Washington Nationals 5-1. The veteran slugger drove in every run, blasting a 451-foot homer and lacing a three-run double that turned the game on its head. It was the kind of performance that reminded fans why Stanton remains one of baseball’s most imposing hitters.
But the big hits are just one side. His contribution stretched past the box score. Solid defense in right field and steady presence in the lineup made it clear this was one of Stanton’s most complete showings in pinstripes.
Big G powers Yankees offense with season-high five RBIs
AP Photo/Noah K. Murray
The 35-year-old turned an early 1-0 deficit into a decisive win. In the third inning, Giancarlo Stanton ripped a 101.6-mph double off MacKenzie Gore, clearing the bases and slamming it off the left-center field wall to give New York a 3-1 lead.
“He’s locked in,” Cody Bellinger said. “It seems like every at-bat is a quality at-bat; he hits the ball harder than anyone I’ve ever seen. It’s really, really fun to watch and really impressive.”
Stanton struck again in the sixth. Facing Orlando Ribalta, he launched a 112.7-mph rocket deep into the left-field bleachers. The 451-foot drive was his longest of the season and extended the Yankees’ lead to 5-1.
Yankees manager praises Stanton’s mental approach
Manager Aaron Boone has seen Stanton ride hot streaks before, but said this one feels different. Boone credited the slugger’s preparation and sharp baseball IQ for his dominance at the plate.
“He knows how to get himself ready,” Boone said before the game. “He knows how to prepare for a pitcher. He knows how to play the game within the game, that cat and mouse thing with the pitcher, really good.”
“This, I feel like — and it’s saying a lot — is maybe as good as I’ve seen him, just consistency-wise,” Boone said. “Consistency of at-bat after at-bat after at-bat. I feel like he is controlling the zone probably as well as I’ve ever seen him.”
Historic second-half surge continues for Yankees star
Tuesday’s outburst only extended what has been a blistering second half for Stanton. Since the All-Star break, he has been one of the most dangerous hitters in the league.
Over 30 games since midsummer, Stanton is hitting .362 with 13 home runs and 32 RBIs. His 1.248 OPS ranks second among all players with at least 100 second-half plate appearances, behind only Nick Kurtz of the Athletics.
The streak includes five homers in his last seven games and seven in his past 11. Despite missing the first 70 games of the season with tennis elbow issues in both arms, Stanton has produced 17 home runs and 46 RBIs in just 51 contests.
Stanton reflects on his best Yankees stretch
Asked if this is his finest run since joining New York in 2018, Stanton kept his answer measured.
“I haven’t taken a huge dive into the underlying numbers, but if that’s in conversation, it’s a good conversation to have,” Stanton said. “I’m moving forward one day at a time, so I’ve just got to keep it rolling.”
He also admitted the importance of making an impact after his long early-season absence.
“That means the most to me,” Stanton said. “You never want to miss time. Sitting back, watching, just understanding that I could be there contributing, it’s important that I’m able to do this now.”
Dual role keeps Stanton valuable for Yankees
AP
With Aaron Judge limited to designated hitter duties due to a right flexor strain, Stanton has been rotating between the outfield and DH role. On Tuesday, he delivered a solid defensive showing in right field.
“It’s been fun being able to contribute on both sides,” Stanton said. “I’m just making sure I’m mentally prepared for all scenarios when the ball is hit towards me.”
Boone praised Stanton’s defense but said he is being careful with his workload.
“I think he’s done a capable job out there,” Boone said. “Obviously I’ve been careful with it, getting him out of games when we do have a lead. Part of that is getting our defense on the field, but also trying to preserve him the best physically as I can.”
Stanton overcomes physical challenges
Stanton’s production is even more striking given the elbow problems that sidelined him early in the year. His current run shows the payoff of months of rehab.
“It’s insanely impressive,” Bellinger said. “Him and Judge, they can do things offensively that not many guys can do. It’s such a rare sight, it’s really fun to watch and see with your own eyes.”
By hitting at an elite level despite lingering issues, Stanton has given the Yankees a much-needed spark as they fight for a postseason berth.
Yankees benefit from Stanton’s clutch hitting
Both of Stanton’s big hits Tuesday came at critical moments. His third-inning double flipped the game after Washington had the lead. His sixth-inning homer provided insurance after the Nationals loaded the bases in the top of the frame.
“I like when he walks up there, because I know he’s going to be prepared and I know he’s going to go execute his plan,” Boone said. “It doesn’t obviously mean you get a result, but I know he’s going to be convicted; if they slip up, he’s going to get you.”
The victory was New York’s third straight after dropping a series to Boston. It also kept the Yankees in control of the second American League wild card spot.
Stanton’s resurgence has not only carried the lineup but also reshaped the Yankees’ offensive outlook for the stretch run. His power, discipline, and ability to deliver under pressure have made him the difference-maker New York needs as October approaches.
