This has been a season marked by inconsistencies for the New York Yankees, both on and off the field, as in this season finale, a major strategic decision would generate multiple criticisms for the executives in New York
Outfielder Trent Grisham, who had the best season of his career with 33 home runs and a .239 average, figures that confirm him as a true diamond in the rough, may not continue with the Bronx Bombers.
His offensive contribution was consistent for much of the year and his current salary of $5 million looks like a bargain. However, market projections suggest that his next contract could reach $48 million over four seasons, a figure that forces management to analyze in detail whether it is a good deal to retain him.
Why might Trent Grisham leave the Yankees?
In Grisham’s favor is his ability to generate power with the bat, a 130 wRC+ and production close to 3.0 WAR, numbers that any competitive team values.
Even his advanced metrics, such as a 14.6% “barrel” rate and .380 xwOBA, support that his offensive results are no fluke.
However, the other side of the coin shows inconsistencies, as the outfielder has been labeled as a streaky player: brilliant in August with 10 home runs, but limited in September with an average of just .143
In addition, his defense, once a hallmark with two Gold Gloves, fell to -1 Outs Above Average, plus 122 strikeouts in the campaign.
Alternatives for the Yankees
In the face of these doubts, analysts such as Henry Palattella suggest that the Yankees consider not committing to a long-term contract.
Instead, the most sensible option might be to make a qualifying offer and look to other players such as Cody Bellinger, who showed more balanced numbers (.272, 29 HR, superior WAR) and also offers defensive versatility.
The organization also has young talent pushing hard in the minors. Jasson Dominguez and Spencer Jones could stake a claim for a spot in the lineup in 2026, making it even more questionable to spend millions on an erratic outfielder.
Players who could leave the Yankees at the end of the season
Grisham is not the only one under evaluation. Luke Weaver and Mark Leiter Jr. disappointed out of the bullpen, while the experiment with Devin Williams did not work out. Even the case of Anthony Volpe, once touted as the future of shortstop, is now in doubt after accumulating 19 defensive errors and a low OPS+ for three years in a row.
With this context, the Yankees are preparing to make tough decisions. The story of Robinson Cano, who left for Seattle despite his stardom in New York, reminds us that in the Bronx no player has a guaranteed future.
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