Aaron Boone enters the 2025 MLB season without Giancarlo Stanton for Opening Day, and the Yankees may have to be without their designated hitter for an extended period due to his ongoing elbow injury. After using Aaron Judge as a DH in a spring training game, Boone also named three other players as potential options for the role.
In an interview with YES Network, Boone clarified that Judge isn’t the only candidate for the DH spot. One of the three alternatives is Ben Rice, who joined the Yankees in 2024. Rice logged 178 plate appearances last season, hitting seven home runs while adding 20 runs and 26 hits across 50 games, primarily playing first base when needed.
The second option is Dominic Smith, who recently signed a minor league deal with the Yankees. Smith, looking to return to the majors, played in 93 games between the Red Sox and Reds in 2024, recording 307 plate appearances, 33 runs, 64 hits, and six home runs.
Beyond Judge, the third potential replacement is J.C. Escarra. Although he has yet to make his MLB debut, Escarra has been developing in the minor leagues and played in the Dominican Winter League in 2024, where he hit three home runs with 22 runs and 41 hits in 137 plate appearances.
Aaron Judge Unlikely to Be Primary DH
While Boone will make the final call, Judge is unlikely to be the regular DH during the season, as he is expected to anchor the outfield, where the Yankees have limited options. Some experts believe Judge could be more effective as a DH, allowing him more rest and potentially reducing his risk of injury.
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Judge had a strong 2024 season, posting a 10.8 WAR and a career-high 704 plate appearances. He also tallied 122 runs, 180 hits, and 58 home runs—his second-highest single-season total—demonstrating he remains a major offensive force.
When Will Giancarlo Stanton Return?
Stanton’s return date remains uncertain. The Yankees have already confirmed he will begin the regular season on the injured list and won’t be available until his elbow issues are resolved. Recently, he received a second round of platelet-rich plasma injections, which could aid his recovery.
