NEW YORK — Despite strong seasons from both Cody Bellinger and Trent Grisham, the New York Yankees are unlikely to retain both outfielders this offseason.
Bellinger declined his $25 million player option for 2026, officially entering free agency, but he remains a strong candidate to return on a new long-term deal. His production, leadership, and fit within the Yankees’ lineup have made him a clear priority for general manager Brian Cashman.
That reality, however, makes it increasingly difficult to envision Grisham returning in pinstripes next year.
Grisham’s Breakout Year
Acquired from the San Diego Padres as part of the Juan Soto trade in December 2023, Grisham was initially viewed as a depth piece and defensive specialist. In 2024, he filled that role quietly, slashing .190/.290/.385 with nine home runs and providing solid defense (+2 Outs Above Average) in 90 games.
But 2025 marked a complete turnaround. The 28-year-old center fielder shattered expectations, posting career highs across the board:
- 34 home runs (previous career high: 17)
- .235/.348/.464 slash line
- 129 wRC+
- 14.1% walk rate
- 3.2 fWAR across 143 games
It was a breakout campaign that transformed Grisham from a glove-first role player into one of the top two-way outfielders in the American League.
However, his postseason struggles — a .136/.219/.207 line in 29 at-bats as the Yankees fell to the Toronto Blue Jays in the ALDS — highlighted the inconsistency that has followed him throughout his career.
Market Outlook
According to Spotrac, Grisham is projected to command a deal worth roughly $48 million over four years (average annual value of $12.1 million). That would make him one of the six highest-paid center fielders in baseball — a figure that could push the Yankees out of contention given their other priorities.
Bellinger, by contrast, is expected to pursue a far larger deal after another productive season in New York. The 30-year-old slugger hit .278/.361/.494 with 28 home runs, providing steady middle-of-the-order power and plus defense at both first base and the outfield corners.
Given the financial commitments already on the Yankees’ books — and the likelihood of investing heavily in pitching and bullpen depth — retaining both players seems improbable.
The Bigger Picture
The Yankees’ front office faces a delicate balance: keeping Bellinger’s bat while addressing needs elsewhere, possibly at shortstop and in the rotation. Grisham’s emergence could earn him a sizable contract elsewhere, especially for teams seeking a power-speed center fielder with strong defense.
While New York’s focus appears to be on extending Bellinger, Grisham’s breakout ensures his market will be robust. As a result, the Yankees may have to watch another key contributor depart just one year after helping power them to the postseason.
