WELCOME BACK: New York Yankees Announce the Return Of Former Star Player Giancarlo Stanton
By Sarah Montgomery | June 17, 2025
NEW YORK CITY — In a move that has sent shockwaves across the baseball world and sparked celebration in the Bronx, the New York Yankees officially announced today the return of former star slugger Giancarlo Stanton, reuniting the franchise with one of its most formidable power hitters of the past decade.
The Yankees confirmed the signing in a press conference at Yankee Stadium Tuesday morning, revealing that Stanton has inked a one-year deal with a club option for 2026. Terms of the agreement were not fully disclosed, but sources close to the organization report that the deal includes performance incentives and a mutual understanding that Stanton will take on a hybrid role as designated hitter and occasional outfielder.
“It’s a special day for this organization and for our fans,” Yankees General Manager Brian Cashman said. “Giancarlo is a player who understands what it means to wear the pinstripes. His presence in the clubhouse, his experience, and of course his power at the plate make this a significant addition as we push for another championship.”
A Familiar Face Returns
Stanton, 35, spent six seasons with the Yankees from 2018 to 2023, delivering 122 home runs and countless highlight-reel moments during his time in New York. His tenure was marked by both flashes of brilliance and battles with injuries, culminating in a departure that many believed would be the end of his Yankee chapter.
After a short-lived stint with the San Diego Padres in 2024, where he struggled to find rhythm and consistency, Stanton was released midseason. He spent the offseason training privately and staying away from the spotlight. However, rumors of his possible return to New York began to swirl after he was seen working out at the Yankees’ spring facility in Tampa earlier this year.
“I always believed there was unfinished business here,” Stanton said at the press conference, donning the familiar No. 27 jersey once again. “The pinstripes are more than just a uniform—they’re a legacy. I’m grateful for this second chance and ready to help bring a title back to the Bronx.”
A Calculated Gamble
While Stanton’s return has been met with mostly excitement from Yankees fans, analysts have noted the move is not without risk. His performance has declined in recent years, particularly in 2023 and 2024, where he batted under .200 and saw limited playing time due to recurring hamstring and knee issues.
Still, the Yankees see this as a low-risk, high-reward opportunity. The team, currently sitting second in the AL East and within striking distance of the division-leading Orioles, is in need of veteran leadership and a jolt of power as they enter the second half of the season.
Manager Aaron Boone acknowledged Stanton’s injury history but expressed confidence in the team’s ability to manage his workload.
“We’ve learned a lot about how to keep Giancarlo healthy and productive,” Boone said. “He looks fantastic, he’s in great shape, and he’s hungry. That’s a dangerous combination for opposing pitchers.”
Fan Reaction
Yankee faithful wasted no time showing their enthusiasm. Social media lit up with nostalgic posts of Stanton’s towering home runs and walk-off celebrations. “It’s like getting the band back together,” one fan tweeted. Another wrote, “Let’s finish what we started, Giancarlo.”
Outside Yankee Stadium, fans gathered in the team store as soon as news broke, many seeking the newly reissued Stanton jerseys. Local sports radio stations fielded calls all afternoon, with the consensus overwhelmingly positive.
“People love a redemption story,” said Yankees historian Marty Kaplan. “And Yankee fans, especially, love to see one of their own come home.”
What’s Next?
Stanton is expected to join the team immediately and could see his first at-bats as early as Thursday when the Yankees open a four-game series at home against the Red Sox—a fitting stage for a much-anticipated return.
Whether Stanton can recapture the form that once made him one of the most feared hitters in baseball remains to be seen. But for now, the excitement is palpable, and the message is clear: Giancarlo Stanton is back in the Bronx.
“This isn’t about the past,” Stanton said, wrapping up his remarks. “It’s about what we can do now. Let’s get to work.”
—
Sarah Montgomery covers the New York Yankees and Major League Baseball for NY Sports Beat.
