Aaron Hicks is a name not very popular in the Bronx. The outfielder, after serving seven years in the New York Yankees, was released earlier this year. Subpar offensive numbers combined with laughable defensive lapses made the Bronx a hell for Hicks. After massive public outrage, he was designated for assignment and later released from the active roster.
Having said that, the veteran found a new home weeks later at East rivals Baltimore Orioles. After Cedrick Mullins got hurt, the Orioles turned to Hicks for a temporary replacement. However, to everyone’s surprise, the change of scenery worked like magic for the outfielder as he witnessed a sudden surge. Now, he is set to feature in the playoff with the Orioles, whereas the Yankees are sulking at the last spot.
The Yankees Are Still Paying Aaron Hicks Despite Parting Ways In May!
Outfielder Aaron Hicks landed on the Baltimore Orioles weeks after being laid off by the New York Yankees. He witnessed a sudden surge on the plate as well as in the outfield. In 46 games in Baltimore, Hicks has hit .262 with six home runs, 21 RBIs and .785 OPS. These numbers are way better than what he did in his finals seasons at the Bronx. Not only that, luck favored Hicks as he set to feature in the playoff while his ex-team lingers at the last place. Baltimore Orioles are leading the East division with 87-51, with a playoff berth almost booked. Having said that, a particular fact related to the outfielder’s contract will burn the Yankee fans.
Apparently, New York Yankees are still paying Aaron Hicks the remainder of his seven-year extension contract he signed back in 2019. For the next two seasons, the Yanks owe a guaranteed $19 million combined to Hicks, whereas the Orioles got a cheap deal at a bare minimum. “I got a chance to play every day on a winning team. That’s definitely been a blessing. We have the ability to go extremely far in the playoffs,” said Aaron Hicks. All things said and done, the ousted outfielder has no bad blood with the Yanks. He respects their decision as he was not able to fulfill his duties against lefties. While Hicks would have loved additional game time to prove his worth, it was up to the Bombers to call the shots.
Orioles Highest Paid Athlete Is A Retired Slugger!
Unlike the New York Yankees, Baltimore Orioles’ payroll is much lower compared to some high-end teams. Yet they are bossing the league and leading the highly competitive East Division. Aaron Hicks and James McCann are the highest-paid players on their active roster. However, their biggest expenditure of the 2023 season is baseman Chris Davis, who, in fact, retired back in 2021.
The Orioles signed an extension contract with Chris Davis in 2016. It was a seven-year, $161 million deal which fell out. However, as per his contract agreements, Davis will be paid over $14 million this year and a combined $56 million through 2037. That certainly sets back Baltimore a few years back in terms of payroll. Regardless, the team continues to thrive with a minimum payroll in front of teams like the Yankees, who enjoy one of the highest payrolls in MLB.
