TAMPA — Shortly after the Yankees’ 2025 season ended in the ALDS, Paul Goldschmidt decided he wanted to return for another campaign wearing pinstripes. The 38-year-old first baseman agreed to a one-year, $4 million contract last Friday, with incentives that could increase his earnings to $6 million, extending his tenure with the New York Yankees into the upcoming season.
Goldschmidt, who has yet to capture a World Series ring in his career, emphasized his enthusiasm for continuing with the Yankees, expressing that he had “such a good time here” and hoped his playing days with the team were not finished. The veteran’s deal reflects his evolving role as the Yankees position him more as a role player rather than a regular starter for the 2026 season.
Ben Rice Positioned as Primary First Baseman
The emergence of Ben Rice as the Yankees’ favored first baseman marks a change in Goldschmidt’s playing time and responsibilities. Rice, a left-handed hitter with significant power potential, is expected to face more pitchers next season, especially against left-handed pitching. Goldschmidt, a right-handed batter, is prepared to contribute in a supporting capacity, potentially starting against southpaws or appearing as a pinch-hitter in late-game situations.
Goldschmidt acknowledged Rice’s development and potential, stating,
“I think Benny’s going to definitely be planning to get the bulk of the playing time over there, and I’m definitely fine with whatever role they need me to [do].”
As a mentor during last season, Goldschmidt has taken an active part in helping Rice improve his defensive skills, noting the positive progress.
“The more experience you get over there, the better you get,”
Goldschmidt said.
“We were working last year a lot over there, taking grounders around the bag, and I just saw him improve. I kind of had a similar trajectory when I think about what it was like when I first got to the big leagues, so hopefully he’ll continue to improve and get better at all facets of the game.”
Versatile Role Expected for Goldschmidt
Goldschmidt’s role will extend beyond first base starts; his experience allows him to be a valuable late-inning defensive substitute as Rice continues to develop. Additionally, Goldschmidt could provide situational hitting against tough left-handed pitchers, complementing lefty-heavy bats of players like Jazz Chisholm Jr., Austin Wells, Trent Grisham, and Ryan McMahon in the Yankees’ lineup.
Last season, Goldschmidt produced a .981 OPS against left-handed pitching, despite diminished effectiveness in the latter half of the year. Over 145 games, he recorded a .274 batting average with 10 home runs and 45 RBIs, maintaining a solid offensive presence for the team.
Manager Aaron Boone on Roster and Player Health Updates
Yankees manager Aaron Boone commented on the evolving roster situation, suggesting that it is “possible” Ben Rice could see more playing time as a catcher with Goldschmidt back in the fold. Boone acknowledged Rice’s increasing role at the plate, affirming that Rice has “earned” the opportunity to exceed his 530 plate appearances from last season, where he posted a .255 batting average, .836 OPS, 26 home runs, and 65 RBIs over 138 games.
Boone also addressed player health updates as spring training began. Carlos Rodón, recovering from elbow surgery to remove bone spurs, and Gerrit Cole, returning from Tommy John surgery last spring, are progressing well in their respective throwing programs. Cole is expected to face live hitters in the next couple of weeks and could potentially participate in games before spring training concludes, with hopes of a season debut by late May or early June.
Rodón anticipates returning in late April or early May, with an intention to make some spring training starts and begin a minor league rehab assignment at the start of the regular season. Meanwhile, Clarke Schmidt, who also underwent Tommy John surgery, will start the year on the injured list. As a result, the season-opening rotation is projected to include Max Fried, Cam Schlittler, Will Warren, Ryan Weathers, and Luis Gil.
Anthony Volpe’s Recovery and Infield Plans
Shortstop Anthony Volpe’s recovery following offseason shoulder surgery is reportedly progressing well, with Boone stating that the player’s strength and range of motion have returned. Volpe has resumed taking ground balls and strength training, and is expected to start his hitting progression within the next week or two.
Volpe is slated to begin the season on the injured list, leading to utility player José Caballero being positioned as the Yankees’ starting shortstop at the beginning of the campaign. Should Caballero perform strongly, the team may face challenging decisions about the shortstop role once Volpe is fully healthy, especially given Volpe’s underwhelming results during his first three seasons.
Giancarlo Stanton’s Readiness and Outfield Options
Following a season disrupted by lingering tennis elbow issues, designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton is expected to be ready when position players report to camp on February 15. Although Boone has not yet seen Stanton in Tampa and typically eases him cautiously into spring games, he does not foresee the elbow problems delaying Stanton again.
Boone hopes Stanton can maintain flexibility to play in the outfield when needed; however, such usage will likely be out of necessity rather than preference. This scenario occurred briefly last season as Stanton covered in the outfield during Aaron Judge’s recovery from a flexor strain.
Implications for the Yankees’ 2026 Season
Paul Goldschmidt’s acceptance of a reduced but significant role signals his willingness to support the Yankees’ core as Ben Rice steps up at first base. Goldschmidt’s experience and mentorship could be vital in ensuring a smooth transition and depth at a key position, allowing the team to better navigate pitching matchups and late-game scenarios.
With key pitchers like Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodón gradually returning and prospects like Anthony Volpe progressing through rehabilitation, the Yankees are positioning themselves to field a competitive roster. Balancing developing talent with seasoned veterans such as Goldschmidt may prove crucial as the team aims to improve upon last season’s playoff appearance and contend for a World Series title.
