Giancarlo Stanton’s latest injury is bad news for the New York Yankees in 2025. However, it may also clear a path to a potential win-win trade with crosstown rivals the New York Mets.
There are big expectations in the Bronx again this year. After a run to the World Series in October, there is pressure on the team to finish the story in 2025. Sure, they lost Juan Soto in MLB free agency to the Mets. But they responded to his departure with a slew of big additions that have some feeling they are a better team now than late last year.
Related: Marcus Stroman’s bold comments puts New York Yankees in bad spot amid MLB trade rumors
A key part of their run to the World Series last season was 15-year MLB veteran Giancarlo Stanton. His hot play in October reshaped his narrative with many New York fans. However, his reputation with Yankees supporters is heading in the wrong direction again. After it was revealed this week he is battling through issues in not one but both of his elbows.
While he will likely avoid surgery, the problem dates back to last season. And a recent report suggested the chronic issue could be something that sidelines Stanton for as long as six months. That could leave a giant hole at the DH spot heading into the 2025 season.
However, it may also open the door to trading a player the Yankees have been wanting to move while also getting one back that could be a solid replacement for Stanton at DH.
- Starling Marte stats (2024): 94 G, .269 AVG, .327 OBP, .388 SLG, .715 OPS, 7 HR, 40 RBI, 46 R
Should New York Yankees and New York Mets consider Starling Marte for Marcus Stroman trade?
One notable story for the New York Yankees over the last couple of months has been the organization’s efforts to trade Marcus Stroman. After signing Max Fried in free agency, the team has no intention of going to a six-man rotation and Stroman is the odd man out. However, his contract and attitude in recent seasons have made him difficult to trade.
The New York Mets also have a pricey player they are also looking to move. After inking Soto to a record-shattering contract in December, Starling Marte and the $20 million left on his contract for this season is something the club has wanted to shed. Furthermore, the team in Queens has been looking to add another starter. And that need was intensified this week when it was revealed Frankie Montas will miss the next two months with a lat injury.
Marte will make just a couple of million more than Stroman in 2025. When healthy he is still a good hitter and not having to play the outfield could preserve his health. He would also serve as a backup plan if Jasson Dominguez struggles this season. Plus, Marte comes off the books after this season.
- Marcus Stroman stats (2024): 10-9 record. 4.31 ERA, 113 strikeouts, 154.2 innings pitched
The big question is would the Mets want Stroman back? While they have a new front office and manager, he may have rubbed some the wrong way during his three years in Queens when he skipped the pandemic-shortened season in 2020. Plus, he has a vesting option for $18.3 million in 2026 if he pitches over 140 innings.
A case could certainly be made that both players fill needs for the other teams in the city over the next few months.