Giancarlo Stanton's improved health brings fresh hope for Yankees

Giancarlo Stanton says his double elbow tendinitis is more manageable and will start spring training as a full participant. Manager Aaron Boone said Stanton is moving well, may delay his Grapefruit League debut, and will receive semi-regular days off during the season.

Giancarlo Stanton enters spring training in improved condition after elbow problems delayed his season last year. Last spring he arrived with double elbow tendinitis that pushed his return to mid-June. Stanton said the tendinitis "is not going anywhere" but that it is in a more manageable spot and did not hinder his offseason work. Manager Aaron Boone said Stanton has moved well in early camp, looks "real lean," and will be managed carefully through spring activity. Current facts: - Stanton continues to have elbow tendinitis but reports it is more manageable and did not limit his offseason preparation. - He is cleared to start camp as a full participant after the second full-squad workout. - Boone said Stanton may have a delayed Grapefruit League debut, possibly by about a week, as a precaution. - The manager plans to give Stanton semi-regular days off during the regular season to manage his workload. - Last season Stanton made 18 starts in the field and hit .273 with 24 home runs and a .944 OPS in 77 games. Summary: Stanton’s improved condition makes it likely he will begin camp fully engaged, but maintaining health through the season remains the main concern for the player and team. The Yankees plan to monitor his Grapefruit League activity, use scheduled rest days, and keep outfield work available as part of workload management. Undetermined at this time.