The New York Yankees are navigating a busy offseason, having already re-signed Cody Bellinger and acquired Ryan Weathers from the miami Marlins, but further moves are expected.The club continues to explore options on the free agent market, with first baseman Paul Goldschmidt remaining a possibility even in a reduced role, according to Jon Heyman of The New York Post.
Goldschmidt’s Potential Return Hinges on Role and Finances
This could be a path back to the Bronx, given the Yankees’ current roster construction.
What role could Paul Goldschmidt fill for the Yankees in 2026? He’s likely to be considered for a platoon role, capitalizing on his strong performance against left-handed pitching, providing a valuable option off the bench.
Tho, bringing Goldschmidt back would limit the Yankees’ versatility, as they’ve already allocated bench spots to backup catcher JC Escarra and Rosario. Adding Goldschmidt would leave only one remaining spot for either Jasson Domínguez or Oswaldo Cabrera. The situation could become even more crowded once Anthony Volpe returns from injury,potentially pushing Jose Caballero to the bench.
Financially,a deal isn’t a given. The Yankees are already exceeding the top tier of the competitive balance tax and would face a 110% tax on any additional payroll. this means they’d effectively be paying more than double Goldschmidt’s actual salary. The Diamondbacks have also reportedly expressed interest in a reunion with Goldschmidt, potentially in a similar platoon arrangement with Pavin Smith.
Pitching Remains a Priority
Beyond Goldschmidt, the Yankees are also considering several pitching options. They’ve shown interest in right-hander Nick Martinez, who has been a valuable swingman in recent years, posting a 3.67 ERA in 524 2/3 innings since 2022, and Michael Kopech, a 30-year-old reliever with a 3.46 ERA over 67 appearances in 2024. They are also looking at outfielders austin Slater and Randal Grichuk to bolster their lineup.
Martinez has excelled as a reliever, with a 2.94 ERA in that role, but his versatility is appealing. The Yankees’ rotation currently projects to include Max Fried, Cam Schlittler, Luis Gil, Will Warren, and Weathers, though Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodón are expected to join the mix once they recover from injuries. Clarke Schmidt is recovering from Tommy John surgery and may be available later in the season.
The Yankees have already added Paul Blackburn and Ryan Yarbrough as swingman options, providing depth and flexibility. Blackburn received a $2 million guarantee, while Yarbrough signed for $2.5 million. Martinez, who previously earned a two-year, $26 million deal with the Reds, could command a similar price tag, despite posting a 4.45 ERA in 2025.
Kopech, meanwhile, is expected to be a bullpen addition, having been used exclusively in relief for the past two seasons. He’s shown upside, but has dealt with injuries, including a shoulder impingement and a torn meniscus in 2025. Slater and Grichuk offer right-handed hitting options in the outfield, complementing the Yankees’ left-handed hitters.
