When the New York Yankees acquired Giancarlo Stanton, it was considered one of the most significant signings in Major League Baseball at the time. The powerful right-handed hitter was among the game’s elite, fresh off a season where he earned his first and only MVP award.
A five-time All-Star, MVP, and two-time Silver Slugger, Stanton has compiled a Hall of Fame-worthy career. With 422 home runs to his name, reaching the 500 mark could very well secure him a spot in Cooperstown one day.
His stats are undeniable, and while he’s faced challenges during his tenure with the Yankees, few players in the past decade have matched his level of production.
However, for the Yankees, Stanton’s career has been marred by injuries and inconsistent play, which falls short of the expectations tied to his $325 million contract. At such a hefty price, top-tier performance isn’t just anticipated; it’s essential for the team’s financial investment.
As a result, Kerry Miller of Bleacher Report included Stanton on the “all-overpaid” MLB team.
“Given how poorly he performed over the past two seasons (.202 AVG, .729 OPS) and the general struggles of New York’s lineup this season—13 players with at least 100 plate appearances, eight of whom have a sub-.690 OPS—it almost feels like Stanton is having a decent year, batting .241 with 20 home runs and a .780 OPS…
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“When Stanton does contribute, though, it typically bodes well for the Yankees, who are 36-8 when he scores or drives in at least one run. And it’s hardly a coincidence that they went 10-18 while he spent more than five weeks on the IL with a hamstring strain.”
Looking at his overall numbers with the Yankees, Stanton would be a highly effective player if not for his frequent injuries.
Despite New York’s offensive struggles in the postseason, Stanton has been one of the few players to rise to the occasion. In the postseason with the Yankees, he’s slashed .260/.327/.636 with 11 home runs and 24 RBI in 96 at-bats.
Ultimately, Stanton’s future success will hinge on his ability to stay healthy. With several years remaining on his contract, including a team option in 2028, the Yankees have limited options. Their best hope is that he remains on the field.
