On Thursday night, the New York Yankees announced they signed Randal Grichuk to a minor-league contract ahead of spring training, aiming to add competition to their outfield and strengthen their right-handed hitting options. This move comes as the Yankees seek depth and flexibility in their roster for the 2026 season.
Grichuk, entering his 34-year-old season, has long been recognized for his strong performance against left-handed pitchers, sporting a career .268 batting average and an .819 OPS in those matchups. Although he experienced a down year in 2025 with the Kansas City Royals after a solid 2.2 WAR season with the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2024, the Yankees hope he can rediscover that form during spring training. If he impresses, he could earn some playing time on the major league roster this year.
Despite this opportunity, the Yankees’ 26-man roster appears largely set at the moment, with bench spots projected to include JC Escarra, Oswaldo Cabrera, Paul Goldschmidt, and Amed Rosario. Cabrera’s defensive versatility may secure him a place on the Opening Day roster, reducing the likelihood of frequent major league action for Grichuk unless injuries arise. Because of these roster dynamics, Grichuk might start the season in Triple-A and could consider opting out of his contract if meaningful playing time seems unlikely in New York.
“Randal Grichuk to Yankees” – Jon Heyman
Potential Trade Targets Emerge Amid Bench Competition
Even with Grichuk signed, the Yankees continue to explore other options for reinforcing their outfield. One possibility involves a trade with the Chicago Cubs, who have former Houston Astros outfielder Chas McCormick potentially available. McCormick is currently on a minor league deal with the Cubs and holds an opt-out clause valid until March 21. If he chooses to exercise this clause, the Yankees could pursue him as a candidate for their fourth outfield spot.
McCormick showed promise during his tenure with Houston, particularly from 2021 to 2023, when he posted a 3.4 WAR season, suggesting potential as a regular starter. However, his recent performance has declined, with a combined -1.6 WAR across 2024 and 2025. Despite this, McCormick remains productive against left-handed pitching, with a .280/.354/.493 slash line, and is noted for his defensive skills, arguably better than Grichuk’s.
The Yankees’ interest in McCormick reflects their intent to monitor spring training outcomes closely, weighing how each player fits the existing roster framework. His acquisition would likely depend on his performance during spring and the overall construction of the bench and outfield group.
Ongoing Roster Developments Keep Yankees’ Plans Fluid
The Yankees are also managing uncertainty around players like Giancarlo Stanton, Cam Schlittler, and Ben Rice, all of whom have influenced roster discussions as spring training unfolds. Multiple factors—including potential injuries, player opt-outs, and trade possibilities—remain in flux, making the final composition of the Yankees’ roster difficult to predict at this stage.
With about a month remaining before the season begins, the Yankees are maintaining a flexible approach as they finalize their squad. The signing of Randal Grichuk adds depth and enhances competition, but the team’s ongoing trade interest and the various roster moves highlight a front office focused on adjustment and preparation for the challenges ahead.
Randal Grichuk to Yankees
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) February 26, 2026
