NEW YORK – As the New York Yankees grapple with the potential absence of captain Aaron Judge, an unexpected solution has emerged from within their own clubhouse. Designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton has declared he is healthy and prepared to play the outfield if the team needs him, a defensive role he has not filled in nearly two years.

The development, first reported by the New York Post on Sunday, comes as the Yankees await further news on Judge, who is dealing with a flexor injury in his right arm. Judge’s potential time on the injured list creates a significant void in center field and at the top of the lineup, forcing the organization to consider all available options as they navigate a tight pennant race.

For Stanton, a return to the outfield would mark a significant step in his physical recovery and a departure from the carefully managed workload that has defined his last two seasons.

Judge's Absence Looms Large

The urgency of the situation stems directly from Aaron Judge's indispensable role on the team. As the starting center fielder, a perennial MVP candidate, and the offensive engine of the Yankees, any time he misses is a critical blow. While the full extent of his flexor injury remains under evaluation, the possibility of even a short-term absence has sent ripples through the organization.

The Yankees' immediate challenge is to fill his defensive position without sacrificing offensive production. This dilemma opens the door for Stanton, whose formidable power at the plate is a lineup mainstay. However, keeping his bat in the game has meant limiting his defensive duties to preserve his health.

Stanton States His Case

Speaking to reporters over the weekend, Stanton was unequivocal about his readiness. He confirmed he feels healthy enough to handle the physical demands of playing the outfield, a significant statement from a player who has battled a series of lower-body injuries throughout his career.

"I think we're at that point," Stanton said, according to reports, when asked if he could play defense.

The 35-year-old former National League MVP last appeared in the outfield during the 2023 season, where he made 33 defensive appearances. Since then, the Yankees have used him almost exclusively as a designated hitter to protect him from the strain that fielding can put on his legs and back. This strategy has been largely successful in keeping him on the field and productive at the plate, but the current circumstances may force a change in strategy.

A Calculated Risk for the Yankees

A decision to play Stanton in right or left field would not be without considerable risk. The primary concern is re-injury. The explosive movements required to track fly balls and make throws are what have previously led to Stanton's stints on the injured list. Another injury could sideline him for an extended period, compounding the team's problems.

However, the potential reward is substantial. Playing Stanton in the field would free up the designated hitter spot, allowing manager Aaron Boone to keep another powerful bat in the lineup or rotate players to give them partial rest. This flexibility could be crucial in offsetting the loss of Judge's offensive output.

Team management and the coaching staff will now have to weigh the immediate benefit of a strengthened outfield defense against the long-term risk to one of their most important sluggers. Their decision will likely depend on the final prognosis for Judge and the performance of other internal options. For now, Stanton has made it clear he is ready to answer the call, adding another dramatic storyline to the Yankees' late-season push for a championship.