Former Yankees Hero Joba Chamberlain ‘Scared’ About Difficult Aaron Judge Decision

Judge's Return Creates Lineup Headache for Yankees

Boone Faces Tough Decision with Stanton and Judge in the Cards

The New York Yankees are facing a dilemma: how to accommodate both Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton in the lineup once Judge returns from his elbow injury. While fans eagerly await Judge’s comeback, the prospect raises questions about where Stanton will fit after spending the season exclusively as the designated hitter.

Stanton hasn't played the outfield since 2023 due to a history of lower-body and soft tissue injuries, making a return to right field unlikely. This leaves manager Aaron Boone with a tough call: stick with Stanton as DH or risk jeopardizing his health by pushing him back into the outfield.

“I don’t even know what to say anymore,” former Yankees pitcher Joba Chamberlain wrote after Monday's 8-5 loss, expressing his apprehension about Boone’s decision. “Everyone holding on ok, just checking on y’all.”

Turf Concerns Add Fuel to the Fire

Adding another layer of complexity, Stanton will sit against the Rangers Tuesday and Wednesday because the Yankees are concerned about him playing on Globe Life Park's turf given his injury history.

Despite this, Stanton has been a bright spot for the team, batting .270 with 10 homers, 28 RBIs, and a .875 OPS since returning from the IL in late June. He has already recorded 1.0 bWAR after posting a cumulative 0.7 bWAR from 2022-24.

Stanton Open to Returning to the Field

When asked about the possibility of returning to right field, Stanton expressed confidence in his ability. "I'm (throwing) on target,” he told Yankees reporter Randy Miller. “I have good timing. It’s a line drive (throw). That’s all that matters. I have to get back out there seeing it, but I should be all right.”

This leaves Boone with a difficult choice: prioritize Stanton's health and keep him at DH, or risk further injury by pushing him back into the outfield. The Yankees faithful will undoubtedly be watching closely as this storyline unfolds.