Yankees hold a three-game lead for the final AL wild-card spot and will lean on Stanton’s return and Judge’s plate presence while managing Judge’s elbow limitations. The lineup gains depth with Stanton back in RF, but fielding flexibility remains constrained. The Cardinal series earlier in the week boosted momentum as New York navigates a pivotal stretch against Tampa Bay.

Judge has been limited to DH duties since August 5 and is undergoing elbow testing with long toss. While batting .333 with 39 HR and 91 RBIs, his outfield absence constrains Yankee flexibility and puts more pressure on Stanton. A timetable remains unclear; Boone signaled that Judge might not regain full throwing strength this year, a factor fantasy managers must weigh in rest-of-season planning.

Stanton’s return to the lineup adds a potent power bat for the Yankees as he slides into right field for one of two games with Judge out of the outfield. His .299 average with 12 home runs and 34 RBIs this season keeps fantasy rosters alert for potential big numbers, though his lengthy injury history makes outfield deployment a risk. The move also influences New York’s lineup balance, giving Boone flexibility to protect Judge’s elbow while still prioritizing run production.

The Yankees juggle Judge’s elbow with DH-only action while Stanton covers RF, forcing adjustments across the lineup. The Rays series tests whether the rest of the order can sustain runs and RBIs without Judge’s fielding value. Expect continued protection plans and shuffles within the batting order as Judge heals.

Stanton has been mixed into right field while Judge DHs, but mobility and elbow history complicate ideal placements. Stanton’s involvement is essential for power in the Yankees’ lineup as they navigate Judge’s constraints and keep the offense productive.