Aaron Judge Sends Message to Stanton as Slugger Nears Return: “Only Singles?” Yankees Teammates Trade Jabs Ahead of Big Comeback
As the New York Yankees gear up for the return of power-hitting slugger Giancarlo Stanton, Aaron Judge couldn’t resist throwing in a playful jab. The Yankees captain reacted with mock surprise after hearing that Stanton, currently on a rehab assignment in the Minor Leagues, only hit singles during his outing.
“Only singles?” Judge quipped, showing the playful competitiveness between the two teammates. While the remark was made in jest, it also served as a clear show of support and optimism for Stanton’s comeback. Judge followed up his comment by assuring fans and reporters, “He’ll figure it out. Don’t worry about it.”
Stanton Shines in Double-A Rehab Game
Stanton, who has been sidelined with elbow issues since the 2024 World Series, made his first official rehab appearance Tuesday with the Somerset Patriots, the Yankees’ Double-A affiliate. Despite the time away from the game, the 35-year-old slugger made an immediate impact during his four plate appearances, collecting two hits, a walk, and driving in three runs to help Somerset cruise to an 8-1 win over the Portland Sea Dogs, the Red Sox’s affiliate.
His return was closely watched by fans and media alike. Batting just ahead of two of the Yankees’ top prospects—George Lombard Jr. and Spencer Jones—Stanton looked like a seasoned veteran ready to rejoin the Yankees’ potent lineup.
His first at-bat didn’t go quite as planned, ending in a groundout to shortstop. But Stanton quickly found his rhythm. In the third inning, he drew a walk, and from there, the bat came alive. He followed up with a well-hit single to center field, driving in two runs after smashing an 89 mph cutter off Portland’s right-hander David Sandlin. The ball bounced off the center field fence, showing off Stanton’s trademark power. In his next at-bat, he added another RBI single, further showcasing his readiness.
“Day-by-Day”: Yankees Take Cautious Approach with Stanton’s Return
Even with his promising performance, Yankees manager Aaron Boone made it clear that Stanton’s return to the Major League roster remains a day-to-day consideration. The team is treading carefully, taking into account Stanton’s physical condition and ensuring he gets enough reps to feel fully game-ready.
“Stanton just needs to keep building himself up physically and get to the point where he knows he’s had enough at-bats to be confident coming back,” Boone said after the Yankees’ 10-2 win over Kansas on Tuesday night.
Boone confirmed that Stanton would play again on Wednesday in the first game of a scheduled doubleheader for Somerset. Still, the Yankees are in no rush, opting instead to evaluate his status one day at a time. There’s no firm timeline yet for when he’ll be reactivated and rejoin the Major League squad.
“He’s had a great acceleration,” Boone noted, referring to Stanton’s progress in workouts and simulated at-bats even before starting the rehab assignment. “We just want to make sure he feels really good about his timing and readiness.”
A Vital Piece of the Puzzle
Stanton’s return is highly anticipated—not just because of his individual ability but because of what he brings to the Yankees’ postseason ambitions. He last played in the 2024 World Series, where the Yankees fell to the Los Angeles Dodgers in five games. Despite the loss, Stanton was the standout performer throughout the postseason. He belted seven home runs, drove in 16 RBIs, and posted an impressive 1.048 OPS. His dominance in the AL Championship Series earned him the MVP honors after leading the Yankees past the Cleveland Guardians.
The Yankees placed Stanton on the injured list back in late March with epicondylitis—an inflammation affecting the tendons around the elbow. At the time, it was unclear how long he would be sidelined. With ace pitcher Gerrit Cole also dealing with injuries earlier in the season, expectations were muted. Yet the Yankees managed to thrive, maintaining their spot atop the American League East standings in Stanton’s absence.
Now, as the team eyes a deep postseason run, Stanton’s return could be a game-changer. Known for his explosive power and big-game presence, his addition to the batting lineup could significantly bolster the Yankees’ offensive firepower.
A Teammate’s Challenge, a Brother’s Belief
Judge’s joking remark—“Only singles?”—came with a tone of camaraderie and expectation. The two sluggers have built a strong friendship and on-field chemistry since Stanton arrived in New York in 2018. Stanton ranks second in home runs (162) for the Yankees during that time, behind only Judge himself. While Judge’s comment was playful, it underscored the trust and confidence the Yankees captain has in his fellow outfielder.
Stanton’s presence, both as a designated hitter and a clubhouse leader, is viewed as essential for the Yankees as they enter the second half of the season. His power-hitting capabilities can change the course of a game in one swing, and his experience will be crucial in the team’s pursuit of another postseason berth—and ultimately, a World Series title.
What’s Next?
For now, all eyes will remain on Somerset, where Stanton continues to get game action under his belt. His progress over the next few days will be critical in determining when he’s cleared to return to the Major League roster.
While the Yankees have shown they can win without him, getting a healthy Stanton back in the lineup could push them over the edge in their championship quest. As fans wait for official word, one thing is certain: Stanton is inching closer, and the Bronx Bombers will be ready to welcome him back—with or without the home runs.
Just don’t expect Judge to stop reminding him: “We’re waiting on those bombs.”
