While Giancarlo Stanton’s contract with the New York Yankees has been a subject of criticism since his arrival, particularly after he was booed on Opening Day of his first
season in pinstripes, the 35-year-old’s recent postseason performance may have softened some of those sentiments. Stanton played a key role in the Yankees’ 2024 World
Series run, contributing significantly to their offense.Nevertheless, according to Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter, Stanton’s deal remains one of the most burdensome in Major League
Baseball. Reuter ranks Stanton’s contract as the seventh-worst in the league, citing the limitations posed by his age and injury history. “His
strong playoff performance and the fact that the Miami Marlins are still on the hook for approximately 25% of his remaining salary prevent him from ranking higher on the list,”
Reuter explained. “However, it’s unlikely he will live up to the terms of his 13-year, $325 million deal over the next three years.”
Stanton, who signed the 13-year contract with the Marlins in 2014, still has three years remaining on the deal after being traded to the Yankees in 2018. The Marlins are
responsible for a portion of his salary, alleviating some of the financial burden for New York. Stanton is slated to earn $32 million in 2025.
At 35, Stanton’s physical condition has become a growing concern. His imposing frame—standing 6-foot-6 and weighing 245 pounds—has shown signs of wear and tear, limiting
his ability to play in the outfield. In 2024, he did not appear in the field, further reducing manager Aaron Boone’s flexibility with his lineup as Stanton continues to serve primarily as the designated hitter.
Despite these challenges, Stanton’s performance in the postseason has offered a silver lining. The slugger crushed seven home runs, drove in 16 RBIs, and posted a 1.048 OPS
during the Yankees’ playoff run, earning the American League Championship Series MVP honors.
Reuter’s rankings of bad contracts also highlight the long-term challenges for several other teams, with the Los Angeles Angels’ Mike Trout topping the list with his 12-year, $430 million contract as the worst in baseball.