New York Yankees spring training camp has been chaotic so far. With the ongoing drama over whether to trade pitcher Marcus Stroman, a rash of injuries and confusion over who manager Aaron Boone plans to play at third base, the last thing the defending American League champions needed was yet more controversy. But that is exactly what Boone gave them on Monday when he appeared to acknowledge he may not have told the whole truth in his previous explanation of why designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton – whose seven postseason home runs last year powered the Yankees to within three wins of a 28th World Series title and were a franchise record – departed the team’s Tampa, Florida, spring training facility over the weekend.

When the 35-year-old Stanton, who is entering the 10th year of a 13-season, $325 million contract, failed to show up at his locker on Sunday to answer media questions, Boone explained to the media that the 429-career-home-run slugger had returned to New York City for further medical tests on his injured elbows. Stanton has been experiencing soreness in both elbows since last season and has been unable to resume baseball activities this spring due to the twin injuries. He is due to be paid $32 million in 2025.

On Monday, however, Boone changed his tune. According to MLB.com Yankees beat writer Brian Hoch, Boone is now describing Stanton’s trip to New York “personal in nature.” More MLB: Pirates Could Sign This Former Yankees Infielder to Short-Term Deal Boone then added, “I’m going to leave it at that for now. That’s all I can comment on that.”

The manager previously called Stanton’s injuries “akin to tennis elbow,” but according to Hoch, recent indicators point to a more serious situation. What Stanton’s “personal” situation could be remained an even greater mystery as of Tuesday morning. In somewhat better news from Yankees camp – news that may end up having a direct bearing on Stanton’s situation – top prospect Spencer Jones homered on Saturday in his 2025 spring training debut.