Yankees' Giancarlo Stanton Poised for Return After Hamstring Injury

BOSTON (AP) — New York Yankees outfielder Giancarlo Stanton is on track to be activated for the team's series opener against the Philadelphia Phillies on Monday. Stanton has been sidelined since June 22 due to a left hamstring strain sustained while running the bases. Yankees manager Aaron Boone indicated that Stanton is undergoing a rigorous training regimen this weekend, with hopes for his return contingent on his progress over the next few days. Stanton's injury history is notable, as this marks the eighth time he has been placed on the injured list in the past six years. The 34-year-old has participated in 69 of the Yankees' first 79 games this season, exclusively as a designated hitter, and has recorded a batting average of .246, with 18 home runs and 45 RBIs. His limited defensive play has been a strategic decision that may facilitate a quicker recovery. Boone emphasized the importance of building Stanton's physical volume as he prepares for a return. "He’s pretty much done everything he needs to do," Boone stated, highlighting the need for Stanton to gradually increase his workload. If Stanton is activated on Monday, he will have missed a total of 28 games, adding to a concerning trend where he has missed 266 out of 708 games over the last five seasons, equating to 38% of the games.