The New York Yankees are inching closer to full strength, and manager Aaron Boone shared some encouraging injury updates ahead of Tuesday's series opener against the Texas Rangers. Here's the latest on a few key players as the Bronx Bombers look to build momentum.
Ben Rice: Day-to-Day After Scare
Young slugger Ben Rice remains out of the starting lineup for the second straight game after taking a pitch to the hand during Sunday's matchup with the Baltimore Orioles. The rookie first baseman has been one of the Yankees' most consistent hitters this season, providing a dangerous bat alongside Aaron Judge. Through 33 games, Rice is slashing an impressive .342 with a 1.214 OPS, 12 home runs, and 27 RBI.
Boone noted that Rice hasn't started hitting yet, but his availability off the bench will depend on how he feels over the next few hours. "If he starts doing some light hitting and can ramp it up to get a swing off, then we'll have a conversation," Boone explained. For now, the team is taking a cautious approach with one of their hottest bats.
Carlos Rodón: One More Step Away
Left-hander Carlos Rodón is set to make his third rehab start Tuesday night with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, and Boone confirmed that if all goes well, this will be his final tune-up before rejoining the Yankees' rotation. Rodón has been building up since offseason elbow surgery, and his progress has been promising.
In his first rehab outing with High-A Hudson Valley, Rodón allowed just one hit and one walk over 4.1 innings. He followed that up with a dominant performance at Double-A Somerset on April 30, striking out eight batters while surrendering only one run on five hits across 5.1 innings. The southpaw's return would be a major boost for a Yankees rotation looking to solidify its depth down the stretch.
Giancarlo Stanton and Gerrit Cole: Patience Pays Off
Boone also provided updates on two other key players working their way back. Giancarlo Stanton has begun hitting in the cage as he recovers from a calf strain, though he's still not running. The manager admitted the injury is lingering "a little bit," but the team is being cautious to avoid any setbacks. "It still feels minor, but not ready yet," Boone said.
As for Gerrit Cole, the ace continues his recovery without a firm timeline, but the Yankees are optimistic that his return will come at the right time. With Rodón on the cusp of rejoining the rotation and Rice expected back soon, the Bombers are positioning themselves for a strong push as the season heats up.
Stay tuned for more updates as these players work their way back to the diamond—and make sure you're geared up in Yankees style for every game!