Stanton, who has been out since February with tennis elbow in both arms, took live at-bats at Yankee Stadium before Tuesday’s 12-3 victory over the San Diego Padres. The five-time All-Star grounded out to shortstop and drew a walk against rehabbing reliever Jake Cousins.

New York Yankees slugger Giancarlo Stanton has yet to play this season, but appears closer to a return after taking live batting practice.

Access the Yankees beat like never before Join Post Sports+ for exciting subscriber-only features, including real-time texting with Greg Joyce about the inside buzz on the Yankees. Try it free Hours before Tuesday’s 12-3 win over the Padres,