Yankees slugger Giancarlo Stanton and center fielder Trent Grisham faced pitchers Wednesday at Double-A Somerset as New York hopes both can contribute in the postseason. Stanton, sidelined since April 24 with strained calf muscles in both legs, homered during six or seven at-bats and ran the bases. Grisham has been out since straining his right hamstring on Sept. 4. Manager Aaron Boone, battling a cold, said the pair are "putting them on the outskirts of the conversation" for the American League Wild Card Series against Boston starting Tuesday at Yankee Stadium.

Stanton, 36, has missed 500 of 1,194 games (41.9%) since his 2018 debut season with 38 homers and 100 RBIs. He is owed $25 million next year in the final guaranteed season of a $325 million, 13-year contract. Boone suggested a pinch-hit role may be most realistic.

Right-hander Carlos Lagrange, who reached 100 mph at Triple-A, also threw to batters after missing time with a right capsule strain. Clarke Schmidt remains sidelined by right biceps cramps. Boone indicated Cam Schlittler will start Game 1 or 2, with Max Fried taking the other. Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodón are lined up for Game 3. Fernando Cruz, out since Aug. 25 with right elbow discomfort, threw a bullpen and expects to return in weeks. Jazz Chisholm Jr. is back from a sprained right thumb, allowing Anthony Volpe to see time at third base.