The New York Yankees can’t catch a break on the injury front, as they announced that star slugger Giancarlo Stanton would be placed on the injured list on Tuesday afternoon with Achilles tendinitis in his left leg.
Gearing up for a two-game series against the New York Mets, the Yankees could’ve used one of their top hitters, but instead, they will have to supplement his loss with Tim Locastro.
Per the Yankees:
- Placed OF/DH Giancarlo Stanton on the 10-day injured list (retroactive to 7/24) with left Achilles tendonitis.
- Recalled OF Tim Locastro (#33) from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Stanton is hitting .228 with a 31% on base rate this year. He’s hit 24 homers and 61 RBIs, posting a 28.4% strikeout rate and 10.7% walk rate. Stanton is on pace to break his 2021 home run total of 35, featuring a 53% hard-hit rate, 21% barrel rate, and 95.1 mph exit velocity.
Giancarlo has earned a 38.2% flyball rate with a 31.6% HR/FP ratio. That is an adequate number that should result in more long balls this season. He is a massive loss in the batting order, normally featuring as the cleanup hitter.
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In his place, the versatile Tim Locastro will get more playing time. Locastro features a .240 average with a 32% on-base rate this season.
The 30-year-old outfielder has recorded two homers with four RBIs in 2022, including six stolen bases. Considering his speed, his stolen base metric is likely his most valuable.
The Yankees have been dealing with a number of injuries lately, notably, star bullpen arm Michael King suffering a fractured right elbow. Luckily, he won’t require Tommy John surgery, meaning he should be ready to go for spring training next season.
In the meantime, general manager Brian Cashman must be active at the trade deadline to acquire a few reinforcements. The starting pitching rotation, bullpen, and outfield could all use support. Ultimately, it depends on how many prospects he’s willing to sell.