Giancarlo Stanton hit two home runs to help the New York Yankees secure an 8-1 win over the Toronto Blue Jays in a Grapefruit League game on March 12. The game took place at George M. Steinbrenner Field during Spring Training.
The performance is significant for Stanton, who has been working on his timing and swing after being limited by elbow injuries last season. His recent success at the plate suggests he is making progress ahead of the regular season.
Stanton said, “My timing is getting more precise, being able to replicate multiple games. I’ve been able to make the adjustments. The past game or two, my timing wasn’t there. I was able to go make the adjustments and come back and feel a little better.” He added that maintaining his routine has helped him manage ongoing issues with epicondylitis in both elbows.
Manager Aaron Boone praised Stanton’s approach at the plate, saying, “I feel like all of his at-bats have been really, really good. He’s not chasing. He’s controlling the strike zone. That’s what we saw him do a little better last year; not [having] some of the wild chases.” Boone also noted that Stanton benefits from experience and preparation: “He knows himself. He knows his routine and how to create a plan going into the games.”
Pitchers Cam Schlittler and Carlos Lagrange also drew attention during the game. Schlittler struck out six batters over 3 2/3 innings, while Lagrange threw fastballs averaging over 101 mph across four relief innings. Boone said about Lagrange, “He just continues to be really, really excellent… Just getting to know him, we’re obviously excited about it.”
Veteran Randal Grichuk made an impression with a run-scoring double in his first hit of camp. Boone commented on Grichuk’s potential value against left-handed pitching: “It’s good to get him playing now and hopefully he gets some real at-bats here to build a little bit of momentum in these final two weeks.”
As Spring Training continues, players are focused on refining their routines and earning roster spots before Opening Day.
