The Yankees continue their climb in the standings despite a growing list of sidelined players. The club released updates this week on three key contributors at various stages of recovery.
Jazz Chisholm appears ahead of schedule. Giancarlo Stanton faces setbacks. Luis Gil targets a summer return. Each situation carries implications for the Yankees‘ roster construction moving forward.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone delivered encouraging news this week.
“(Chisholm) could resume hitting off velocity in the next few days,” Boone told reporters. “Chisholm is asymptomatic. He may need to play in one or two minor league games on rehab.”
Checking in on Jazz Chisholm Jr.: Could resume hitting off velocity in the next few days, Aaron Boone said. Chisholm is asymptomatic. Boone added that Chisholm may need to play in one or two Minor League games on rehab.
This timeline represents a dramatic improvement from initial projections. Oblique injuries typically sideline hitters for extended periods due to the rotational demands of swinging.
The Yankees desperately need stability at second base. Various replacements have struggled to produce since Chisholm’s injury. Despite batting just .181 before going down, Chisholm had shown significant power with seven home runs in 105 at-bats.
Team officials hope a healthy return might spark the hot streak Chisholm enjoyed earlier this season.
Boone confirmed no clear timetable exists for Stanton’s return. The 34-year-old isn’t ready for even a brief rehab assignment. This development effectively eliminates any possibility of a May comeback and raises questions about June availability.
The Yankees had hoped Stanton could soon return as the designated hitter. These delays have fueled trade speculation, with sources mentioning Seattle as a potential destination. His ongoing health concerns complicate any potential deal.
There is no set date for Giancarlo Stanton to begin a rehab assignment, Aaron Boone said.
Stanton’s power remains elite when available. He connected for 27 home runs with 72 RBIs last season and still holds MLB’s fastest recorded home run at 121.7 MPH. His primary challenge has been staying on the field.
Ben Rice has filled the DH role effectively during Stanton’s absence. The sophomore is hitting .250 with nine homers, 26 runs, and 35 hits in 140 at-bats. With Aaron Judge batting .401 and Cody Bellinger providing timely power, including a grand slam against the Mets, the offense hasn’t suffered without Stanton.
Gil working toward June comeback
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The most promising update involves Luis Gil. Last year’s American League Rookie of the Year continues progressing from a right lat strain suffered during spring training. The 25-year-old has been on the 60-day injured list since before Opening Day, sidelined since February 28.
Boone reported Gil remains on schedule with his throwing program and could return in “two to three weeks.” Barring setbacks, a late June or early July activation seems realistic.
Gil showcased electric stuff during his rookie campaign. He posted a 15-7 record with a 3.50 ERA while striking out 171 batters over 151 2/3 innings. His control issues manifested in a league-leading 77 walks.
“If he doesn’t lower his walk rate when he returns, it could be rough sledding for Gil,” noted a recent RotoBaller analysis.
Gil’s return would further strengthen an already formidable rotation. Since mid-April, Yankees starters rank second in MLB with a 2.89 ERA, trailing only Philadelphia. Max Fried’s dominance, Carlos Rodón’s resurgence, and contributions from Clarke Schmidt, Ryan Yarbrough, and rookie Will Warren have minimized Gerrit Cole’s absence.
Yankees thrive despite roster challenges
The 2025 Yankees (28-19) remain one of baseball’s most complete teams despite missing several key contributors. Their offense produces consistently. Their pitching staff smothers opponents. Young talents like Rice and Warren deliver in crucial moments.
Chisholm’s return would stabilize the middle infield. Gil would add another high-ceiling arm to an overachieving rotation. Stanton represents the biggest question mark, with both his health and trade status unresolved.
Throughout a season filled with unexpected developments, the Yankees have demonstrated remarkable resilience. They’ve built a roster capable of absorbing significant losses while continuing to win.
