Is Stanton Worth the Payday for New York?
On Saturday morning, it was announced that the New York Yankees have reached a deal to receive Miami Marlins outfielder Giancarlo Stanton and $30 million in exchange for 2B Starlin Castro and multiple prospects. The 28-year old is currently owed a whopping $295 million over the course of his contract, yet the Yankees have stated that remaining under the $197 million luxury-tax threshold for 2018 is their top priority.
Prospects who are believed to not be on the move for New York include Gleyber Torres, Justus Sheffield, and Estevan Florial. The Bombers were previously in the running for Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani, yet he later elected to sign with the Angels instead. While both individual attractions can be viewed as franchise centerpieces, is Stanton truly worth the payday in the Bronx?
Stanton is coming off of an MVP season with Miami, reeling in 59 HRs, 132 RBIs, and 123 runs. On the other hand, since 2012, Stanton is only averaging 115 games played, due to ongoing injuries that has kept him from playing any vital role with the Marlins. Although he did play 159 games in 2017, does anyone truly believe Stanton will remain consistent until he’s 39-years old?
The Marlins found themselves as the winners of this deal, although the Yankees face far more potential for success in 2018. The front office of Miami was facing a rumored $400 million debt, and Stanton was an essential piece that newfound owner Derek Jeter was seeking to depart from.
Fans may claim that Stanton will help our offense mold into an “elite” form, yet the Yankees finished last season second in runs per game. If anything, New York should have used their funds in order to invest in a variety of starting pitchers. Although the current free agency lacked in any riveting names when it comes to pitching, the Yankees truly molding out of the underdog reputation, and back into the “Evil Empire”.
Stanton has been handed the largest contract in the history of baseball, and after weeks of spectating what may occur, he now finds himself placed on arguably the brightest stage in sports. Oddly enough, the Yankees and owner George Steinbrenner were once criticized for being too conservative during free agency, but I’m not sure Stanton is the smartest investment for the franchise.
Sure, Stanton is one of the best outfielders in the MLB, and Yankees fans should be more than enthusiastic about what he can provide in terms of potential for the upcoming season. On the other hand, how many players with long-term deals have truly panned out? At first glance, Miguel Cabrera, Clayton Kershaw, and Joey Votto have either worked or are working out for their respected franchises, but the list is very exclusive.
On the other hand, a plethora of names have caused front offices to spend countless hours regretting their decision. The names under this category would include Alex Rodriguez, Albert Pujols, Prince Fielder, and many more. While it’s fair to assume that Stanton will be a force within the MLB for years to come, it’s extremely unfair to claim he’ll be worth his $25+ annual salary until potentially 2029.
UPI Images
Want more? Subscribe to The Athletes Hub YouTube page for a variety of sports debate.
