As the New York Yankees pursue their long-awaited World Series title, the pressure is mounting to make some tough decisions, particularly regarding Giancarlo Stanton. Signed through 2027, with a club option for 2028, his massive contract has become a topic of concern for a team eager to revamp its roster. The crux of the issue? Stanton’s performance and health have made it increasingly clear that he may not finish out his deal in the Bronx.
Stanton’s time with the Yankees has been marked by flashes of brilliance, but they have been overshadowed by his struggles to stay on the field. Over the past seven seasons, he’s only surpassed a Wins Above Replacement (WAR) of 1.0 on two occasions: during his first year in 2018 and again in 2021. Unfortunately, injuries have limited him to just 114 games over the last two years, and his overall production during those seasons has yielded a disappointing total WAR of just 0.6. For a player commanding over $30 million annually, that’s simply not enough bang for the buck.
Looking ahead, Stanton is set to earn $32 million in 2025, but that number drops dramatically to $19 million in 2026 and $15 million in 2027. This financial flexibility is critical for the Yankees, who are eyeing younger talent to inject life into the lineup. Imagine the potential for investing in a player like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. or even spreading that salary across multiple quality contributors. With each injury and underwhelming performance, Stanton is increasingly playing for his job in the Bronx as much as for the remainder of his career.
Adding to the uncertainty is Stanton’s current health situation. As the 2025 season approaches, he’s expected to start on the injured list, possibly sidelined until late May. Recent platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections in both elbows have left him unable to swing a bat since January—and that’s not exactly a promising sign for a designated hitter whose main role is to drive in runs. The question looms: will the power that made him a fearsome hitter return?
Hamstring injuries have also plagued Stanton in the last two seasons, and as players age, these ailments often become more difficult to shake. His baserunning speed has already raised eyebrows, and there’s rising concern over whether he can contribute for an entire season.
The rumors surrounding JD Martinez potentially signing with the Yankees add another layer to Stanton’s precarious situation. If the Yankees go after Martinez, regardless of Stanton’s health status, it’s telling. Whether it’s a precaution or a more long-term strategy to replace him, Martinez’s addition could herald the start of a new chapter in Yankees history—one that may not include Stanton.
With the clock ticking on his tenure, it’s clear that the Yankees’ decision-makers are evaluating their options closely. The future may very well depend on how they navigate the delicate balance between loyalty to a veteran slugger and the need for a roster that can compete at the highest level.
