Yankees Slugger Reportedly Could Be Traded This Offseason; Although Move Unlikely

Could New York attempt to deal one of its sluggers this upcoming offseason?

The New York Yankees are between a rock and a hard place. 

New York has underachieved this season and one of the biggest reasons why certainly has been injuries. The club seemingly never has been fully healthy and it has resulted in a disappointing 76-75 record. One player who has dealt with a plethora of injuries -- not only this season but in recent years -- is slugger Giancarlo Stanton. 

Stanton has struggled this season and reportedly could find himself playing elsewhere in 2024, although a move is unlikely according to the New York Daily News Sports' Gary Phillips. 

"They could theoretically offer to eat a large chunk of money in trade talks this winter, but a limited pool of suitors would demand a talented prospect in return, try to swap an equally awful contract, or laugh at the idea of hindering their roster the way the Yankees have," Phillips said. "Stanton’s no-trade clause would also complicate such an effort.

"The alternative would be to cut bait, but Hal Steinbrenner would have to eat even more money in that scenario. Such an option would be more likely in 2026 when Stanton’s salary drops from $32 million to $19 million. In other words, the Yankees may just have to hope that Stanton turns things around in 2024, at least with his bat. Otherwise, the race to the end of his pinstriped career will feel fittingly — and painfully — slow."

Stanton was an All-Star in 2022 but has appeared in just 96 games this season and has slashed .190/.276/.426 with 24 home runs and 58 RBIs. He's under contract with New York until the organization has a club option in 2028. His contract may be too large to trade -- especially with his struggles this season -- so even if the Yankees wanted to make a deal it may be difficult. If he can turn things around next season things could change, but there's no way to know at this point.