Yankees' Didi, Stanton progressing toward return to lineup
The newly minted, first-place New York Yankees could see shortstop Didi Gregorius and outfielder Giancarlo Stanton return to the lineup sooner rather than later.
Gregorius is slated to play his position in extended spring training on Monday, manager Aaron Boone said, according to Coley Harvey of ESPN. The shortstop was initially expected to be used as a designated hitter to start as he continues his recovery from offseason Tommy John surgery. The team expects him to return on schedule at some point in June if all goes well.
Stanton, meanwhile, has already been facing live pitching in Tampa during his shoulder recovery, Harvey adds. Barring a setback, Stanton could begin a rehab assignment Monday at High-A with the Tampa Tarpons. While he's progressing, there is still no official timetable for his return to the big-league lineup.
Originally placed on the injured list with a biceps strain, Stanton hurt his shoulder while rehabbing.
Despite these injuries - and those to several other key members on the roster - the Yankees have gone 18-6 since April 19 and are now in first place in the American League East for the first time since Opening Day.
James Paxton, who's battling back from a knee injury, is also "zeroing in" on his return to the rotation, according to James Kratch of NJ.com.