A quick observation reveals that Giancarlo Stanton appears noticeably slimmer this spring compared to his physique at the end of the New York Yankees’ 2023 season.
Stanton chooses not to elaborate on the transformation. However, it’s worth noting that he has always maintained a muscular physique since his major league debut 14 years ago. His appearance has often resembled that of a tight end rather than a typical baseball player, a characteristic that remains unchanged.
Aaron Judge commented, “He’s incredibly muscular, man. It’s unbelievable.”
Stanton noted that he modifies his offseason routine annually, adapting based on the outcomes of the previous year, whether successes or failures. However, he emphasized that the 2023 season was particularly challenging, representing a low point in his career.
The previous season was nearly embarrassing for Stanton, prompting him to undertake a fresh evaluation of his approach. At 34 years old, he determined that reducing his weight would enhance his prospects of maintaining good health throughout the upcoming season. Following a challenging year where he faced difficulties even while running bases, Stanton prioritized enhancing his mobility, increasing explosiveness, and aiming to become a more dynamic presence on the field.
Stanton has implemented a minor adjustment in the batter’s box by slightly repositioning his hands closer to his body, aiming to better handle inside pitches.
Stanton emphasized, “In this game, even the smallest adjustments can have a significant impact, as it’s a matter of millimeters.”
The key question remains: Will these changes yield the desired results?
“You have to be open to making adjustments,” Stanton remarked, “and have confidence in the path you’re taking when you make them.”
This is about navigating a different path. Stanton, who joined the New York Yankees following his standout and injury-free season, winning the National League MVP title with the Miami Marlins in 2017, has only managed to play more than 110 games in two out of his six years with the team. Over the last five seasons, he has been placed on the injured list eight times due to various injuries, including biceps, knee, quadriceps, hamstring, and calf issues. In 2022, Achilles tendinitis disrupted his All-Star season after a strong performance of 24 home runs and an .835 OPS in the first half of the year.
