With Aaron Judge able to serve as designated hitter but not able to field — he is beginning to build up his right arm after a flexor strain — and with lefty Framber Valdez expected to be on the mound for the Astros, the Yankees are ready to at least somewhat risk Stanton’s legs to shoehorn his bat into the lineup.

Giancarlo Stanton is nearing a return to the outfield for the first time in nearly two years, New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone said Friday. Stanton has had his playing time limited while the Yankees have used slugger Aaron Judge as the designated hitter while working his way back from a flexor tendon strain in his right elbow.