TAMPA, FL — Giancarlo Stanton’s career is one defined by power, perseverance, and impact on the game. After the heroics in the tenth inning last night in Tampa, I think the greatness of Giancarlo Stanton needs to be mentioned even more. Few sluggers in baseball history have combined raw strength with consistent production the way Stanton has. A five-time All-Star, two-time Silver Slugger, the 2017 National League MVP, and the 2024 American League Championship Series MVP Stanton has been one of the premier power hitters of his generation.

His 2017 season with the Miami Marlins stands as one of the most dominant single years in modern history: 59 home runs, 132 RBI, and a .631 slugging percentage. That campaign alone ranks among the greatest power-hitting seasons ever. Stanton’s place in the record books is further solidified by his career home run totals, which place him among the most prolific sluggers of the 21st century.

Stanton was traded to New York following his 2017 MVP season, and though some have been critical, Stanton has been an awesome Yankee. When Stanton is on the field, he has been one of the most feared hitters in the opposing batters box, because he can turn on a pitch at any point. As a Yankee, Stanton has a .245 batting average with a .326 OBP, a .814 OPS and 174 home runs.

Stanton has a knack for coming up in the biggest moments and delivering a big hit, like he did in extras today. In 2025, it is not just the power that is great from Stanton, but he is hitting .311 in 148 at-bats on the year.

Stanton has also become a prolific postseason hitter with the Yankees, including taking home the honors of ALCS MVP in 2024, hitting four home runs in the five game series against the Guardians. The clutch gene that Stanton possesses has given the Yankees some of their best wins of the decade and some very memorable nights, like when he hit a walk-off grand slam the night Aaron Judge hit his 60th home run of the season in 2022.

While injuries have slowed his pace, his peak seasons and career power output deserve recognition. If Stanton hit 500 home runs in his career, he should get into the Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame is not only about durability — it is about celebrating the players who defined an era. Giancarlo Stanton’s power, accolades, and influence on how we measure and appreciate the modern slugger make a strong case for Cooperstown.