The New York Yankees face an early-season challenge as slugger Giancarlo Stanton begins the year on the injured list due to lingering elbow issues. According to reports, Stanton recently underwent PRP injections to address pain in both elbows, a recurring problem that the team expects to https://www.storenymets.com/collections/dedniel-nunez-jersey manage carefully throughout 2025. With Stanton sidelined, speculation mounts about potential replacements, and Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter has pinpointed New York Mets veteran J.D. Martinez as a surprise target.  

Martinez, a six-time All-Star and proven power hitter, could fill the void left by Stanton’s absence. Despite a delayed start in 2024 due to injuries, Martinez still slugged 16 home runs in 120 games, showcasing his ability to deliver in clutch moments. Over the past four seasons, he has amassed 93 homers and 333 RBIs, maintaining a reputation as a reliable designated hitter. His standout performance against left-handed pitching (.263/.370/.466 slash line in 2024) further bolsters his appeal for a Yankees lineup seeking balance.  

While the Yankees aim to reintegrate Stanton later this season, Martinez could offer flexibility in sharing DH duties, reducing wear-and-tear on the injury-prone Stanton. Insider Jon Heyman confirmed preliminary talks between Martinez and the Yankees, signaling potential movement in the https://www.storenymets.com/collections/jared-young-jersey coming weeks. For Mets fans, Martinez’s possible departure to their cross-town rivals adds intrigue to an already fierce rivalry.