Stanton returns from injury and is expected to take on a pinch-hitter role for the Yankees

Stanton. (File photo, Associated Press)

[Sports Center/Comprehensive Report] The Yankees' 36-year-old "weird man" Giancarlo Stanton, who has suffered from injuries this year, is expected to make it to the playoffs. Yankees manager Aaron Boone said in an interview today that Stanton may be positioned in a pinch-hitter role.

Stanton was sidelined for 5 and a half months this season due to a calf strain. He only played in 24 games this year, scoring 3 home runs and 14 RBIs. His offensive measurements were 0.256/0.302/0.422, and his overall offensive index (OPS) was 0.724. Stanton has not played in a game since April 24, US time.

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Today, Stanton and outfielder Trent Grisham, who has a right hamstring strain, did actual pitching practice and base running drills in Class 2A minor league. Stanton hit a home run in 6 or 7 at-bats.

Talking about Stanton's situation, Boone said, "At this point, you would be more inclined to position him in a substitute role. We will see if that is really a feasible option."

After Stanton moved to the Yankees in 2018, he delivered 38 homers and 100 RBIs in his first year, but he then suffered from injuries. From then until the end of the regular season, the Yankees played 1,194 games, and Stanton missed 500 games, with an absence rate of 41.9%.

Stanton's salary next year is US$25 million. His 13-year, US$325 million contract expires next year and also includes a team option in 2028. If the Yankees do not exercise it, they will pay him a buyout of US$10 million.

Stanton, who has been in the major leagues for 17 years, was the National League MVP in 2017, won the National League home run title twice, accumulated 456 home runs in his career, and averaged a batting average of 0.258.