Get ready for some major league excitement as the Yankees unveil their spring training plans, and this is where it gets intriguing: Aaron Judge and other key players are set to take the field, but not everyone is hitting the road just yet. As the games kick off, here’s what you need to know—and trust me, there’s more to this story than meets the eye.
The Lineup Takes Shape
Spring training is in full swing in Tampa, Florida, and the Yankees are gearing up for their Grapefruit League opener against the Orioles in Sarasota this Friday. Manager Aaron Boone’s lineup is packed with international talent, thanks to the World Baseball Classic. Fans can expect to see second baseman Jazz Chisholm (Great Britain), shortstop Jose Caballero (Panama), third baseman Amed Rosario (Dominican Republic), and catcher Austin Wells (Dominican Republic) in action. But here’s where it gets controversial: two of Team USA’s biggest stars, Aaron Judge and Paul Goldschmidt, won’t be making the trip. Why? Well, it’s not exactly a shocker.
The Judge and Goldschmidt Factor
Aaron Judge, the Yankees’ powerhouse right fielder with three MVPs under his belt, and Paul Goldschmidt, the seasoned first baseman with one MVP, are staying put. Judge, known for his selective spring road trips—especially the longer ones like the hour-long drive to Sarasota—will instead make his spring debut at home. He’s slated to start in right field against the Tigers on Saturday and take on DH duties against the Mets on Sunday. Goldschmidt, the team’s eldest at 38, is following a similar pattern. But this is the part most people miss: Judge’s limited early appearances in recent springs are shifting this year. He’s scheduled to play in five of the Yankees’ first nine games to build up for the World Baseball Classic, where he’ll represent Team USA starting March 6 against Brazil.
Stanton’s Slow Start
Another big name taking it slow is DH Giancarlo Stanton. Despite being healthy, Stanton is managing chronic elbow pain that began in 2024. The Yankees insist this delay is purely precautionary, but it’s a reminder of how crucial it is to keep their star players in top shape. And this is where it gets even more interesting: Stanton’s return timeline remains unclear, leaving fans and analysts alike speculating about his role this season.
Cabrera and Schlittler on the Mend
Two other players sitting out initially are super-utility man Oswaldo Cabrera and right-handed starter Cam Schlittler. Cabrera, recovering from a fractured left ankle last May, is nearly back to full strength but hasn’t been cleared for full-speed running yet. Schlittler, meanwhile, dealt with minor mid-back inflammation and left lat discomfort at the start of spring training. He’s since returned to throwing pain-free live BP sessions, but Boone is cautious about rushing him into game action. “I don’t want to speak out of turn yet,” Boone said, leaving the door open for a gradual return.
Rodriguez Takes the Spotlight
Friday’s starter is none other than Elmer Rodriguez, the Yankees’ No. 4 prospect and a rising star. Traded from the Red Sox in December 2024, the 22-year-old Puerto Rican right-hander impressed last season with a 2.58 ERA and 176 strikeouts across 150 innings at three levels. Boone, who hasn’t seen Rodriguez pitch in person yet, is bullish on his future. “I think he’s got a chance to be a starting pitcher in this league for a long time,” Boone said. “I’m excited to see him go on Friday. He’s got a really bright future.”
The Bigger Picture
As the Yankees navigate spring training, the balance between preparing for the World Baseball Classic and safeguarding their stars is front and center. But here’s the thought-provoking question: Are the Yankees taking too much caution with players like Stanton and Schlittler, or is this the smart approach to ensure a healthy season? And what does Judge’s increased early involvement mean for his performance in the WBC? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one conversation you won’t want to miss!
