Yankees Considering Six-Time All-Star J.D. Martinez Amid Stanton Injury Concerns
The New York Yankees’ offensive lineup faces more uncertainty, with another key slugger potentially sidelined. After losing Juan Soto to the Mets following just one season, the team may also be without Giancarlo Stanton for an extended period.
Stanton, a five-time All-Star who hit 27 home runs last season, is currently dealing with tennis elbow in both arms and has been shut down. This is the latest in a series of injuries that have plagued him in recent years—he hasn’t played more than 114 games in a season over the past three years. Additionally, he is away from spring training due to a personal matter, with no clear timeline for his return.
Yankees Show Interest in Free Agent J.D. Martinez
According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Yankees have reached out to J.D. Martinez’s representatives as they explore potential replacements for Stanton.
Martinez, currently a free agent, played for the Mets in 2024, hitting 16 home runs with a .725 OPS and a 106 OPS+. While he is no longer a two-way player and would serve only as a designated hitter, he remains a productive right-handed bat who could help bolster the Yankees’ lineup.
Financially, signing Martinez wouldn’t be a significant burden, as he earned $12 million last season and is unlikely to command a massive contract. However, with the Yankees’ estimated luxury tax payroll sitting at $305.1 million for 2025—$4 million over the highest threshold—they would face a 110% tax on any additional spending.
Over his 14-year MLB career, Martinez has built an impressive resume, hitting 331 home runs with an .863 OPS and 131 OPS+. Given his power-hitting ability, he could be a valuable short-term solution for New York as they navigate Stanton’s uncertain status.
