Who’s next to join Red Sox DH David Ortiz in 500 Home Run Club?

Aug 15, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; New York Yankees designated hitter Mark Teixeira (25) hits a RBI single against Toronto Blue Jays in the eighth inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports

Mark Teixeira
Current Total: 394

The power is still there, given that he clocked 31 homers this season. The problem for Teixeira has been staying on the field, as the Yankees first baseman is expected to miss the rest of the season with a leg injury that has limited him to 111 games. This comes on the heels of a year in which he missed 39 games and a 2013 season that was almost entirely wiped out by injury.

Teixeira still has another year left on the mega-contract he signed with the Yankees, so he’ll presumably reach the 400 mark wearing pinstripes. If he has another productive season then it may entice New York to offer him an extension, which would certainly give a boost to his chances since it would mean that he still gets to hit at Yankee Stadium.

After hitting 30+ homers in eight straight seasons, Teixeira’s home run totals suffered a hit when he started missing significant time due to various injuries. This year was proving to be a bounce-back season until the injury imp struck again. Will he be able to pick up where he left off next year or are the ailments that he keeps piling up a sign that his health will be a concern the rest of his career?

The 35-year old should have a few solid years left in him, which should put him within range of getting to 500. If he can avoid the disabled list and a drastic decline in his late 30’s, Teixeira will make a serious run at joining the club.

Verdict: Reasonable chance

Next: Prince Fielder