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Yankees Roster Projection Revealed After Giancarlo Stanton News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kristie Ackert | Last updated Mar 5, 2025 4:36 PM ET

George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa is quiet on Wednesday. The New York Yankees have a day off from Grapefruit League action. It's a good time to assess the Yankees ' projected roster three weeks into spring training 2025 and three weeks away from Opening Day.

The projected lineup

With injuries to Giancarlo Stanton and DJ LeMahieu, the Yankees' lineup remains in flux. LeMahieu's strained calf—and the team's reluctance to exceed the luxury tax threshold—makes Oswaldo Cabrera the projected starting third baseman. Stanton's absence creates uncertainty at designated hitter, with the Yankees likely looking internally for a replacement.

Here is the projected 2025 Yankees lineup:

Jazz Chisholm Jr.: 2B
Aaron Judge: RF
Cody Bellinger: CF
Paul Goldschmidt: 1B
Austin Wells: C
Ben Rice: DH
Jasson Domínguez: LF
Anthony Volpe: SS
Oswaldo Cabrera: 3B

The rotation

There are few surprises here. With Luis Gil sidelined, the Yankees are expected to keep Marcus Stroman in the rotation until the 2024 Rookie of the Year returns. Entering spring training, starting pitching was a strength, but Gil's lat strain, which will keep him out for at least three months, creates a depth concern. Will Warren will likely be on standby in Triple-A for spot starts.

Gerrit Cole: RHP
Max Fried: LHP

Clarke Schmidt: RHP

Carlos Rodón: LHP
Clarke Schmidt: RHP
Marcus Stroman: RHP

The bullpen

Already impacted by injuries, the Yankees’ bullpen remains a fluid situation. Jake Cousins, who began camp with a forearm strain, is expected back early in the season. JT Brubaker, who was competing for a roster spot, suffered a broken rib and will be sidelined for a while. Scott Effross is also dealing with injury issues, and Jonathan Loáisiga won’t return until late April or early May. These setbacks create opportunities for younger arms.

Devin Williams: RHP
Yerry De Los Santos: RHP
Mark Leiter Jr.: RHP
Ian Hamilton: RHP
Tyler Matzek: LHP
Tim Hill: LHP
Luke Weaver: RHP
Yoendrys Gómez: RHP

The bench

The Yankees' bench lacks depth. Ben Rice gets a spot due to his presence on the 40-man roster and his solid spring, though Dom Smith could also be an option. J.C. Escarra is another candidate to head north with the team, but that would give the Yankees a too-left-handed heavy bench.

Trent Grisham: OF
Ben Rice: 1B/C
Alex Jackson: C
Oswald Peraza: INF

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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