After the tug-of-war between the two sides, Paul Goldschmidt finally settled with the Yankees. During the last few weeks it was a story that was characterized by the organization’s insistence on signing him and the player’s refusal, as a free agent, to listen to other offers that never came. According to Jeff Passan of ESPN, the veteran first baseman signed a one-year contract, which suits both the team and him, because the common goal was a short-term deal.
While he did not manage to record big numbers last season, the player had a positive impact overall. The 2025 campaign was productive in proportion to the opportunities he received and the level of play shown by the rest of the hitters: he hit .274/.328/.403 in 146 games played.
In this way, after signing Cody Bellinger again, the Yankees are strengthening the locker room with experienced men who exercise a leadership image among their teammates.
The problem for Aaron Boone with Paul Goldschmidt
With the return of Paul, the Bronx manager is at a crossroads. On the one hand, Goldschmidt represents power at the plate. On the other, he provides confidence at first base. The downside for Boone is that he has several players who can play in that area, so the rotation of pieces will be a problem with the designated hitter, especially because he has Giancarlo Stanton on the roster.
The Yankees’ first base dilemma
Everything indicates that Ben Rice will be the starting first baseman. He is an All-Star caliber player if given the daily assignment. His numbers show the level of player he is when he comes to bat:
- .255 with an OPS of .836
- He hit 26 home runs in the 2026 season
- A .269/.356/.504 offensive line against right-handed pitchers
- An offensive line of .208/.271/.481 against left-handed pitchers
But there’s also Amed Rosario, who re-signed with the team early in the offseason. He offers all-around defensive versatility, so he can move around the field and cover first base when needed.
Read the full article here
