In a surprising twist that could reshape the American League playoff race, the New York Yankees are reportedly exploring a trade proposal for slugger Giancarlo Stanton. The five-time All-Star, who was once the crown jewel of the Yankees’ power-hitting lineup, may soon be wearing a different uniform if a potential deal with the Seattle Mariners materializes.
Stanton, who was acquired after an MVP season in 2017, has had a respectable but inconsistent run in the Bronx. With a .806 OPS as a Yankee—noticeably down from his .914 in Miami—his value has been questioned in recent years. Injuries have plagued him, with no season of at least 150 games since 2018, and he hasn’t played a game in 2025 due to elbow tendinitis.
Zachary Howell of Clutch Sports suggested that the Seattle Mariners could be a viable trade partner. “He outplayed almost every other Yankee during their run to the World Series last season,” Howell noted. “But with Ben Rice stepping up, the Yankees might feel more comfortable moving Stanton.” He emphasized that Stanton remains highly attractive to contenders like the Mariners, who are in need of a proven power bat.
Despite his health concerns and limited mobility—he hasn’t played the field since 2023—Stanton’s bat still commands respect. At age 35, his career slash line sits at .257/.345/.525 with a towering 429 home runs. He may no longer be a 50-homer MVP threat, but he’s still a dangerous force at the plate, especially in the postseason.
The Mariners, who finished 22nd in team OPS last season and missed the playoffs despite boasting the second-best team ERA (3.49) in the majors, are desperate for offensive reinforcements. Stanton could provide that boost.
However, his $66 million contract over the next three years, plus a no-trade clause, adds complexity. He would need to approve any move, and the Yankees would likely request pitching help in return—something Seattle has in abundance.
While nothing is confirmed yet, this potential blockbuster deal signals a pivotal moment for the Yankees and Mariners as both eye deeper postseason runs. If the trade happens, it could be one of the most talked-about moves before the 2025 deadline.
