The Yankees find themselves financially burdened by the repercussions of their past decisions as outfielder Aaron Hicks secures a one-year deal with the Angels. The move, announced on Monday, marks a fresh start for Hicks, whose disappointing stint with the Yankees came to an end when he was designated for assignment last May. However, the Bronx team is left grappling with the consequences of a seven-year, $70 million extension they signed with the Hicks in 2019, which is set to run through 2025.
Under the terms of the deal, the Angels are able to secure Hicks for the league minimum salary of $740,000. Meanwhile, the Yankees are obligated to shoulder the financial load, responsible for $8.76 million in 2024 and an additional $9.5 million in 2025. Furthermore, a $1 million buyout for 2026 adds to the financial strain, as reported by Joel Sherman of The Post.
Hicks, once the Yankees’ longest-tenured player, saw a turn of fortunes when he joined the Orioles last year after being released. His performance in pinstripes had been lackluster, with a slash line of.188/.263/.261, one home run, five RBIs, and a.524 OPS in 28 games, leading to his dismissal. However, his time with the Orioles proved more fruitful, boasting a.275/.381/.425 line with seven homers, 31 RBIs, and an.806 OPS in 65 regular-season games. Notably, Hicks contributed significantly in the ALDS, delivering two hits, including a home run, and five RBIs in 10 plate appearances.
Despite his on-field success with the Orioles, Hicks remains a divisive figure among fans. During his seven-plus years with the Yankees, he accrued a batting line of.232/.337/.398, hitting 81 home runs, 278 RBIs, and maintaining a.735 OPS. The outfielder began to face criticism from fans in his final days with the team, and his return to the stadium with the Orioles was met with boos, though he managed to hit a home run in that game. In response, Hicks acknowledged the anticipated reaction, stating that he had been prepared for it given the circumstances throughout the season and his tenure with the Yankees.
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