Mike Stanton, now famously known as Giancarlo Stanton, is one of the most recognizable names in Major League Baseball (MLB). He has built an impressive career as an outfielder and designated hitter, currently playing for the New York Yankees. Born on November 8, 1989, in Panorama City, California, Stanton began his MLB journey with the Miami Marlins before joining the Yankees in 2017.
In 2012, Stanton made a significant decision to change his name from Mike to Giancarlo, embracing his given name and reflecting his heritage. This decision marked a new chapter in his career, one that has been filled with notable performances, achievements, and contract records.
Key Takeaways
- Giancarlo Stanton, formerly known as Mike Stanton, plays for the New York Yankees as an outfielder and designated hitter.
- He changed his name in 2012 to reflect his full given name, Giancarlo, and to embrace his heritage.
- Stanton began his MLB career with the Miami Marlins and was traded to the Yankees in 2017.
- His record-breaking contract with the Marlins, signed in 2014, was one of the largest in sports history.
Mike Stanton’s Early Career and Rise to Fame
Giancarlo Stanton began his professional baseball career with the Florida Marlins (now the Miami Marlins) in 2010. During his time with the Marlins, Stanton quickly gained a reputation for his powerful hitting and became the team’s all-time home run leader. His consistent performance on the field and his ability to hit home runs helped solidify his place as one of MLB’s top sluggers.
In 2014, Stanton signed a record-breaking 13-year contract worth $325 million with the Marlins. This deal made headlines as one of the largest contracts in the history of sports. Stanton’s time with the Marlins laid the foundation for his future success.
Giancarlo Stanton’s Time with the Yankees
Stanton was traded to the New York Yankees in 2017, where he continued to showcase his powerful batting skills. Since joining the Yankees, he has played a key role in their lineup, often hitting crucial home runs in important games. In 2024, Stanton delivered a memorable go-ahead home run in the eighth inning against the Kansas City Royals during Game 3 of the American League Division Series (ALDS), leading the Yankees to a 3-2 victory.
His performance with the Yankees has included several notable moments, including his participation in the playoffs and significant contributions to the team’s success over the years.
The Name Change – Why Did Mike Stanton Become Giancarlo Stanton?
In 2012, Stanton made the decision to change his name from Mike to Giancarlo, which is his given name. The name "Mike" was something he used during his youth and early professional career because it was easier for others to pronounce. However, as his career progressed, he felt it was important to embrace his full name and reflect his heritage. This change also helped him stand out more in the league, as "Giancarlo" was a unique and personal identifier.
Stanton’s name change did not affect his performance on the field, but it did make headlines as fans adjusted to calling him by his new, yet original, name.
Mike Stanton’s Stats and Career Achievements
Stanton’s career has been filled with impressive statistics. As of the 2024 season, he has a batting average of .230 with 27 home runs and 72 RBIs (runs batted in). Throughout his career, he has maintained a solid batting average of .257, hit 429 home runs, and recorded 1,103 RBIs.
| Statistic | 2024 Season | Career Total |
|---|---|---|
| Batting Average | .230 | .257 |
| Home Runs | 27 | 429 |
| RBIs | 72 | 1,103 |
Stanton’s ability to hit home runs has always been his standout skill, and he continues to be one of the most feared power hitters in MLB.
Mike Stanton’s Contract with the Marlins
In 2014, Stanton signed a monumental 13-year, $325 million contract with the Miami Marlins, setting a record for the largest contract in professional sports at the time. This contract included an opt-out clause that Stanton chose not to exercise when he was traded to the New York Yankees. The Yankees have since taken on this contract, making him one of the highest-paid players in MLB history.
Giancarlo Stanton’s Legacy with the Marlins
Stanton’s time with the Marlins was nothing short of legendary. He became the franchise’s all-time leader in home runs and was a key figure in the team’s lineup for several years. His record-breaking contract in 2014 ensured that he would remain one of the highest-paid athletes in the world, and his trade to the Yankees allowed him to compete on a larger stage with a more prominent team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Mike Stanton change his name to Giancarlo?
Stanton changed his name in 2012 to embrace his full given name, Giancarlo. He had used Mike because it was easier for people to pronounce, but later in his career, he felt it was time to honor his heritage and go by his true name.
What team does Giancarlo Stanton play for now?
Giancarlo Stanton currently plays for the New York Yankees as an outfielder and designated hitter.
How many home runs has Giancarlo Stanton hit in his career?
As of the 2024 season, Giancarlo Stanton has hit 429 home runs in his MLB career.
What was Giancarlo Stanton’s contract with the Miami Marlins?
Stanton signed a 13-year, $325 million contract with the Miami Marlins in 2014. This was one of the largest contracts in sports history. The contract was later transferred to the Yankees when they traded for Stanton in 2017.
What are Giancarlo Stanton’s notable achievements in 2024?
In 2024, Giancarlo Stanton hit a crucial go-ahead home run in Game 3 of the ALDS, helping the Yankees secure a 3-2 victory against the Kansas City Royals.
How has Stanton performed with the Yankees since joining them?
Since joining the Yankees in 2017, Stanton has continued to be a key player, delivering significant performances in both regular-season games and playoff series.
Where did Giancarlo Stanton start his MLB career?
Giancarlo Stanton started his MLB career with the Miami Marlins, where he played from 2010 to 2017 before being traded to the New York Yankees.