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Tag: Giancarlo Stanton

  • Yankees Eye $60 Million Reunion to Solve DH Dilemma

    Yankees Eye $60 Million Reunion to Solve DH Dilemma

    The Yankees need a designated hitter (DH) solution with Giancarlo Stanton’s return timeline uncertain. While Jasson Domínguez has been mentioned as an option, he may not be ready for the big leagues yet. Instead, the Yankees should look to a familiar face: Alex Verdugo, whose $60 million market value and versatility make him an interesting choice.

    Why Alex Verdugo is the Answer for the Yankees?

    Verdugo spent 2024 with the Yankees and is a free agent now. He could be the perfect short term solution. He had a down 2024—.233 with 13 home runs and 61 RBI —but he hit his career high in home runs. His batting average was his lowest of his career but his power numbers showed he can still contribute.

    A Familiar Face in the Bronx

    Verdugo knows what it’s like to play in the Bronx and what it means to wear pinstripes. His defensive versatility is a bonus. If the Yankees give Domínguez a shot in left field, Verdugo can rotate between DH and outfield duties.

    How Verdugo Fits in with the Yankees

    The Yankees never replaced Juan Soto and their lineup could use a spark like Verdugo who brings energy and consistency. He’s not a star but he can be a solid contributor since he can hit for average and power.

    Verdugo’s best trait is his defence. In 2024 he was in the 96th percentile in Arm Value and the 94th percentile in Arm Strength according to Baseball Savant. He’s good in left field even if the Yankees decide to give Domínguez more playing time.

    Temporary Solution with Long term benefits

    Signing Verdugo to a one year deal allows the Yankees to test the waters without committing long term resources. If Domínguez develops into what they hope he can be then Verdugo’s role can fade away or diminish. If Stanton’s injury lingers or Domínguez struggles then Verdugo is the safety net.

  • New York Yankees Urged to Sign Veteran All-Star Free Agent After Injury

    New York Yankees Urged to Sign Veteran All-Star Free Agent After Injury

    The New York Yankees are in a tough spot just weeks before Opening Day with their designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton dealing with injuries and personal issues. As they try to fill the void left by Stanton’s absence one name has emerged as a solution: veteran slugger J.D. Martinez.

    Can this former Boston Red Sox star stabilize the Yankees’ lineup? Let’s get into it.

    The Giancarlo Stanton Mystery

    Stanton’s absence started with tendonitis in both elbows and he couldn’t swing a bat. That raised Opening Day doubts. But then things got even weirder when manager Aaron Boone said Stanton left spring training for “personal reasons” not related to his injuries.

    “There’s nothing else to say right now. Hopefully we see him soon,” Boone said. “If he wants to address anything he can. But there’s really nothing more to say right now.”

    No timeline for Stanton’s return so the Yankees are scrambling to fill the hole in their lineup.

    Why J.D. Martinez Makes Sense

    A Bat in the Lineup

    At 37 years old, J.D. Martinez may not be the same MVP caliber player he was when he was with the Boston Red Sox, but he’s a good hitter. After a great 2023 season with the Los Angeles Dodgers—where he hit .271/.321/.572 with 33 HR and 103 RBI —Martinez signed a last minute deal with the New York Mets in 2024. Although his numbers dropped off a bit, he still hit 16 HR and 69 RBI in 120 games with a .725 OPS .

    The Yankees are struggling to find production at DH or in left field and Martinez could be the answer.

    Low Risk, High Reward

    Martinez would probably sign a one year deal so he’s low risk. Even if he doesn’t bring his All-Star self he’s a solid depth piece for a lineup that’s thin without Stanton. He’s also a veteran and leader that could help younger players like rookie Jasson Domínguez who might be asked to play a bigger role.

    The Situation at DH and Left Field

    Without Stanton the Yankees have no options at DH and left field. They don’t have a power bat in the middle of the lineup and relying on unproven players or old veterans isn’t ideal. Adding Martinez would immediately upgrade the offense and give Aaron Boone more flexibility with the lineup.

    FAQs About the Yankees’ Situation

    What is wrong with Giancarlo Stanton?

    Stanton has tendonitis in both elbows and hasn’t been able to swing a bat. He also left spring training for undefined “personal reasons” which only adds to the mystery.

    Is J.D. Martinez still good?

    Yes, 37 years old and all, Martinez hit 16 HomeRuns and 69 RBI in 120 games last season with the Mets. He’s not the same guy he was in his prime but he’s still a good hitter who can help the Yankees.

    Would J.D. Martinez be expensive?

    No, Martinez would sign a cheap one year deal. He’s too old and his production is declining so he won’t command a long term or big money contract, he’s a low risk option for the Yankees.