Giancarlo Stanton and Aaron Judge were anticipated to form a formidable 1-2 punch in the heart of the Yankees’ lineup, elevating their offense to the most intimidating in baseball when Stanton joined from Miami ahead of the 2018 season.
However, a series of injuries and a decline in performance prevented this partnership from reaching its full potential as the Yankees had envisioned. Consequently, Juan Soto has emerged as Judge’s primary accomplice, surpassing Stanton in this role.
Nonetheless, Stanton, now in his 15th MLB season at the age of 34, remains determined, recognizing that this spring training holds particular significance for him. Following the worst season of his career, characterized by a meager .191 batting average and a .695 OPS, and plagued by injuries that limited him to just 101 games, Stanton is focused on making adjustments and regaining his form.
Despite a slow start to spring training, Stanton displayed some encouraging signs during Sunday’s game against Atlanta, including a blistering double and a solid single. He attributed these positive outcomes to adjustments he made to his physique and swing during the offseason, emphasizing the importance of balance and staying grounded at the plate.
While scouts are cautiously optimistic about Stanton’s progress, acknowledging his power and improved presence at the plate, concerns persist about his durability and consistency. With Soto’s addition to the lineup and the Yankees’ offensive depth, Stanton finds himself batting sixth, a position he is content with as he remains focused on the present and looks to rediscover his past success.
Despite his struggles in 2023, both Stanton and the Yankees are hopeful that he can recapture his MVP-caliber form, recognizing his potential to significantly impact the team’s success with his power and experience.
