TAMPA — Giancarlo Stanton’s future seems to be as solely a DH, but he worked in right field Tuesday, the first full workout in Yankees camp.
And manager Aaron Boone said despite Stanton’s injury history, he believes he’s still capable of playing the outfield.
“I don’t want to be completely resigned to him being a full-time DH,’’ Boone said. “[If] he can continue to stay athletic and be an option on defense, I don’t think it’s out of the question.”
Stanton has dealt with a number of leg issues, especially in his time with the Yankees. He showed his capability at the plate when he’s right physically last postseason.
“Last year, we felt he was in a position to help us defensively if we needed to,’’ Boone said of the playoffs. “I wouldn’t rule that out this season.”
So far, though, the Yankees have gotten little bang for their buck from Stanton, and since they should have plenty of outfield depth, he may be better served as DH.
“It might be something to help him stay more healthy, being able to [play defense],’’ Boone said.
Gerrit Cole came out of his first live batting practice fine. “I felt good,’’ said Cole, who threw to Gary Sanchez.
“I didn’t speak to him about the changes he’s made [defensively],’’ Cole said. “He’s super-focused in camp. He’s communicating to pitchers in bullpens and live BP, and seems to be on the right track and taking steps forward.”
The Yankees hope Cole and Sanchez have better results in their second year of working together.
Aaron Judge said he was “excited” to hear Clint Frazier is expected to be the starting left fielder.
“Clint’s a special talent,’’ Judge said. “He’s got speed, quickness [and] power. He’s great in the outfield [with] great instincts. It’s been fun to watch him grow and want to get better [on defense]. He’s looked for weaknesses … and he’s attacked it head on.”
