The $15 Million Question: Giancarlo Stanton's Future With the Yankees
Despite ongoing injury concerns, the Yankees are likely to keep Giancarlo Stanton in 2027 due to his guaranteed contract, but his playing time may be limited.
The New York Yankees face a significant decision regarding the future of designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton, with his $15 million salary for 2027 hanging in the balance. Stanton's career has been hampered by persistent injuries, particularly calf strains that limited him to just 24 games and 96 plate appearances in the most recent season. General manager Brian Cashman acknowledged the impact of Stanton's unavailability, stating that keeping him on the field to contribute to wins was a major problem in 2026.
Despite these challenges, the Yankees owe Stanton $15 million for the 2027 season, with the Miami Marlins covering the remaining $10 million of his $25 million salary. This guaranteed contract makes it financially impractical for the Yankees to release him before that time. The team currently has sufficient room on its 40-man roster to accommodate him without immediate roster concerns.
Stanton is expected to be healthy enough to report to spring training, assuming no lockout delays. However, his potential playing time may be further restricted by the team's current roster construction. During Stanton's absences, Ben Rice emerged as a primary designated hitter, and the Yankees also acquired Luis García Jr. at the trade deadline. While there's a possibility of García playing some second base, it's unlikely to free up a full-time DH role. Furthermore, Aaron Judge may require more designated hitter days himself, potentially creating another obstacle for Stanton's at-bats.
Stanton's physical condition has been a recurring issue. In addition to the calf injuries that plagued him in 2026, elbow problems, which are not expected to dissipate, limited him to 77 games and 281 plate appearances in the previous season. Cashman noted that while Stanton's health is a significant concern, his leadership and professionalism within the clubhouse remain unquestioned. He is described as a "very accountable, responsible, wired correctly professional athlete" who cares immensely about the game.
Even with his health struggles, Stanton has been a respected voice in the clubhouse throughout his tenure with the Yankees. His potential was evident in the first half of the 2025 season when he hit .273 with a .944 OPS and 24 home runs. Manager Aaron Boone highlighted the difficulty Stanton faced with his lower-body injuries and expressed optimism about his potential return, but cautioned that the team's roster plans for the upcoming season are still uncertain as the winter progresses.