The New York Yankees are expected to off-load a lot of players this coming off-season owing to the 2023 fallout. To make things easy for the front office, as many as 17 players will be up for arbitration. Thus, the Yanks would have the option to non-tender as many players as they want. Having said that, a couple of contracted players could also come under scanner.
Veterans like Giancarlo Stanton and DJ LeMahieu haven’t exceeded expectations in 2023. Stanton, in particular, witnessed one of the worst downfalls of his storied career. Thus, rumors of his axing gained momentum right after the Yankees concluded the season in September. However, one former catcher believes cutting off the powerful slugger could prove to be a grave mistake.
Erik Kratz Urges Yankees To Rethink Stance On Giancarlo Stanton’s Future!
Giancarlo Stanton, once regarded as one of the most powerful hitters in the league, witnessed a heavy downfall since joining the New York Yankees. His average has been going down every year since 2018 as injuries grappled the slugger from all ends. Things escalated in 2023 when Stanton finished the season with an all-time-low batting average of .191. Needless to say, the fans are highly disappointed and want him out of the roster by next season. However, one former MLB catcher named Erik Kratz has suggested against the idea of selling Stanton. He believes that the slugger is still an asset, and if made available at a reasonable price, 25 teams would line up to acquire him without hesitation.
However, it’s easier said than done. It’s important to note that Giancarlo Stanton is contracted till 2027 and will earn around $98 million during that period. Thus, it’s not that simple to find a suitor at that price. The Yankees, on the other hand, would not lower his value and incur any further loss. The best option is to trade. But then again, the Yanks have a history of placing ridiculous price tags on its veterans, which eventually stalls deals. Thus, by the early looks of it, it seems Stanton would be donning the pinstripes in 2024, after all. The Bronx Bombers have no option but to trust the slugger to regain his old MVP-level form while aiding his rediscovery at the same time. Undoubtedly, the 2024 season would set the record straight for not only Giancarlo Stanton but for many struggling veterans.
Giancarlo Stanton Promises Of A Comeback In 2024!
Meanwhile, Giancarlo Stanton seems secure in his future in the Bronx. In an interview after wrapping the 2023 season, the slugger confirmed tweaking mechanics during the off-season in order to come back stronger in 2024. He says he need not bring about any major changes. Just a few minor tweaks in batting stance should do the job.
Giancarlo Stanton believes the key to his success is staying healthy throughout the year. That will not only ring in confidence but will also help the team with flexibility. Also, Stanton has expressed the desire to return to the outfield as he feels it brings out the best in him. The sluggers feel more connected and present in a game while being an outfielder as compared to being a designated hitter.
