The New York Yankees have agreed to a minor league contract with veteran outfielder Randal Grichuk, according to Jack Curry of The Yes Network. Grichuk, who is represented by Paragon Sports International, will join the Yankees’ Spring Training camp as a non-roster invitee, aiming to earn a spot on Aaron Boone’s bench by proving his value during the preseason.
Yankees Seek Right-Handed Platoon Bat to Bolster Bench Depth
Joel Sherman of The New York Post noted that the Yankees have been actively searching for a right-handed hitting platoon bat to enhance their bench options. Grichuk fits this role well, offering experience without guaranteeing a roster spot. With Cody Bellinger excelling in left-on-left matchups and expected to cover center field, Grichuk could share time in the outfield corners, complementing Bellinger and star player Aaron Judge.
Mixed Recent Performance Highlights Challenges Ahead for Grichuk
Grichuk’s recent performance has been uneven, as he posted a league-average batting line with the Arizona Diamondbacks before being traded at the deadline to the Kansas City Royals. His time in Kansas City was less productive, ending the season with a .228/.273/.401 slash line overall, and a similarly disappointing .227/.273/.430 mark in 183 plate appearances when facing pitchers of the platoon advantage.
Previous Success Against Left-Handed Pitching Bolsters Potential Value
Despite last year’s struggles, Grichuk demonstrated strong success against left-handed pitchers from 2022 through 2024. Over fewer than 500 plate appearances spanning these seasons, he produced a stellar .317/.367/.573 slash line, including 25 home runs and several extra-base hits. His OPS against southpaws ranked fifth highest in the league during this period, making him a potentially valuable bench piece for specialized matchups.
Uncertain Outlook as Strikeouts and Limited Playing Time Could Impact Return to Form
Grichuk’s strikeout rate against left-handed pitchers increased by nearly seven percentage points last season, creating uncertainty about whether he can return to his prior productive level. With limited opportunities expected during Spring Training to showcase his platoon hitting, the Yankees face a difficult decision regarding his inclusion on the Opening Day roster.
Implications for Yankees’ Roster and Prospects
Should Grichuk make the Yankees’ major league roster, it likely means outfielder Jasson DomÃnguez will begin the season in Triple-A, barring unexpected injuries. The bench would skew heavily right-handed with Paul Goldschmidt and Amed Rosario securing spots, leaving backup catcher J.C. Escarra as the primary left-handed bat off the bench. Outfielder Oswaldo Cabrera is expected to start in Triple-A or on the injured list, while out-of-options player Jorbit Vivas would either be traded or exposed to waivers.
Contract Terms and Options for Grichuk Under MLB Agreement
Grichuk’s status as an Article XX(b) free agent means he finished last season on a major league roster, granting him opt-out rights during his minor league contract. He can elect to opt out five days before Opening Day, on May 1, or June 1, allowing him to pursue opportunities in free agency if he does not secure a roster spot with the Yankees following Spring Training.
Potential Impact and Next Steps for Grichuk and the Yankees
This deal offers Grichuk a chance to revive his career by competing for a bench role on a contending team, while providing the Yankees with a low-risk option to improve depth on their roster. The coming weeks of Spring Training will be crucial in determining whether Grichuk can regain his previous effectiveness as a platoon bat and contribute meaningfully to New York’s lineup strategy.
Randal Grichuk will be joining the Yankees as a non-roster invite. Grichuk is a RH outfielder and the Yanks have been looking for more right-handed hitters.
— JackCurryYES (@JackCurryYES) February 26, 2026
