The combination of Giancarlo Stanton’s leaner frame and lethal power permitted the Yankees to dream on big numbers, but after missing most of last season, the designated hitter could not avoid the injured list.
Stanton was removed from a 5-3 loss to the Rays on Saturday, the second game of a doubleheader at Tropicana Field, after experiencing tightness in his left hamstring. The Yankees placed Stanton on the 10-day IL on Sunday and recalled infielder Thairo Estrada from the alternate site.
“I’m hurting for him,” Boone said. “I know what he’s done to be here. His play speaks for itself. Hopefully it’s something that doesn’t end up keeping him down too long.”
According to Boone, Stanton experienced the tightness while advancing to second base on a fourth-inning wild pitch. Stanton grimaced when he slid into the base, but he was able to move to third base on a Gleyber Torres single before scoring on a Luke Voit hit.
“I think he felt it when he got [to second base],” Boone said. “He realized something, and then when he came in, he said, ‘Have somebody ready.’ He wanted to go kind of stretch and see what he was feeling.”
Boone said that the Yankees would discuss how to replace Stanton on the active roster. One possibility is recalling infielder/outfielder Miguel Andújar, who is currently traveling with the team on its taxi squad.
In 14 games this season, Stanton is batting .293 (12-for-41) with three doubles, three home runs and seven RBIs. He launched his third homer of the season during the Yankees’ 8-4 victory in Game 1 of Saturday’s twin bill.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].