"People think it's more" - Christian Yelich shocks Giannis Antetokounmpo's brother with the truth about the average career span of MLB players
Milwaukee Brewers left fielder Christian Yelich shed light on the overlooked reality of MLB careers. Many assume MLB players have long careers, but Yelich revealed on the "Thanalysis Show," hosted by Giannis Antetokounmpo's brother Thanasis, that it's not the case.
Thanasis Antetokounmpo thought the players in MLB had longer careers, but Yelich's revelation shocked the 2021 NBA champion.
"I think they say that the average career is like three or four years," Yelich said [24:02]. "Most of the time, it's three or four years. And you know, I think the guy that people probably think [has a longer career] is more just like in any sport because [the] guys that you identify with [that] sport are the ones that are around all the time."
When Antetokounmpo enquired about massive long contracts in MLB, Yelich replied it is only for the big names in the game, and average players don't get it.
"Those are like the superstar guys where they're around for that long," said Yelich [24:27]. "I mean, sometimes guys are, you know, three, four, five years and then kind of bounce around a little bit and then are done, which there's nothing wrong with that. That's an unbelievable accomplishment."
Christian Yelich names his top 5 MLB players
Shohei Ohtani's presence in the MLB is one, if not the only, reason for the league's global fame. Alex Rodriguez compared Ohtani to the legendary Babe Ruth. A-Rod defined Ohtani's skill set as a mix of Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens.
Christian Yelich also had great things to say about the Japanese star on the "Thanalysis Show." When Antetokounmpo asked Yelich to name the top five players in MLB, the Brewers OF named Ohtani first, followed by Aaron Judge, Bobby Witt Jr., Bryce Harper and Mike Trout.
Christian Yelich was a strong contender for the NL MVP award in 2024 before an injury and subsequent surgery prematurely ended his season. In the 73 games that he played, Yelich hit 11 home runs and stole 21 bases while driving in 42 RBIs. Yelich also maintained an impressive batting average of .315.
In his absence, Francisco Lindor became the main MVP rival of Ohtani. It remains to be seen who comes out on top.