There’s a lot of anticipation surrounding the New York Yankees heading into the 2025 season. While the team’s strong performance in 2024 remains fresh in the minds of fans, there are concerns to address as spring training kicks off. Despite some injury setbacks, including notable players sidelined, star outfielder Aaron Judge is focused on determining who he can rely on come Opening Day.
With season-ending injuries to Gerrit Cole and Luis Gil expected to keep them out until mid-2025, the Yankees are now facing uncertainty with another key player. Giancarlo Stanton, the 2024 ALCS MVP, remains a question mark as his return to action is still unclear.
That uncertainty was echoed by Yankees GM Brian Cashman, who spoke to the media regarding Stanton’s status. “I spent some time with him this morning, and he’s in good spirits. Certainly, we’re all hopeful that we can get him back down the line, but that’s not in the near-term,” Cashman said. Stanton has already been ruled out for Opening Day, leaving the team’s roster depth in question.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone is hoping to have a clearer picture by the end of spring training. For now, the only certainty is that Aaron Judge will be leading the charge in the season opener against the Brewers this Thursday.
Giancarlo Stanton #27 of the New York Yankees reacts after striking out in the seventh inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers during Game One of the 2024 World Series at Dodger Stadium on October 25, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.
Other players in doubt for Opening Day, according to Cashman
Yankees general manager recently revealed additional players who may not be ready for the season opener against the Brewers. Alongside Stanton, Cole, and Gil, Cashman noted that DJ LeMahieu’s return remains uncertain, while Clayton Beeter is expected to be sidelined for an extended period.
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Despite these setbacks, manager Aaron Boone has other options to consider as he finalizes the lineup for Opening Day. JC Escarra, a player who has struggled to establish himself in the majors, is one of the candidates to strengthen the Yankees’ roster.
Austin Wells, Cody Bellinger, Paul Goldschmidt, Jazz Chisholm Jr., and Anthony Volpe are all expected to be available for the season opener. With just two spring training games remaining, the Yankees are closely evaluating their best options for the upcoming matchup against the Brewers.
Judge talks about new players stepping up
While the first part of the season could present challenges for the Yankees without some of their key stars, new acquisitions have given team captain Judge confidence that the team can perform while the injured players recover. Judge singled out the young players on the roster, who are eager to prove themselves and have the potential to contribute significantly this season.
“I really think it’s a great opportunity for some of the young guys to step up. You can’t be a young guy forever,” Judge said. “When you add guys like Paul Goldschmidt and Cody Bellinger to the mix, and you throw in someone like Max Fried, you’re looking at a solid core.”
