Yankees Decide on $22M Qualifying Offer for Trent Grisham
The New York Yankees have made a significant decision this offseason by extending a qualifying offer to Trent Grisham. This offer, valued at $22.025 million for one season, aims to secure the team’s primary center fielder for the upcoming season.
Yankees Offer $22M to Trent Grisham
This qualifying offer presents Grisham with a pivotal choice. Known for his inconsistent hitting—he ranked below the league average during his first six years—Grisham earned a career-best $5 million last season. The question now is whether he will accept the Yankees’ offer, which is more than four times his previous salary.
Decision Deadline and Potential Outcomes
Grisham must make his decision by November 18. If he accepts the offer, he would provide reliable support in center field for the Yankees or serve as a valuable trade asset. If he declines, he will enter the free agency market, where teams that lose players who received qualifying offers gain compensatory draft picks.
As the Yankees evaluate their options, other center fielders available in free agency include:
- Cody Bellinger
- Harrison Bader
- Cedric Mullins
- Willi Castro
- Lane Thomas
Trade Market Considerations
Teams in search of a center fielder may turn to the trade market if Grisham opts out. Potential trade targets include:
- Luis Robert Jr. (Chicago White Sox)
- Jarren Duran (Boston Red Sox)
- Alek Thomas (Arizona Diamondbacks)
Should Grisham accept the qualifying offer, the Yankees might still explore other options. If they choose to re-sign Bellinger, competing interests could lead to a crowded outfield with Aaron Judge and Jasson Domínguez already slated for two of the positions.
Assessing Grisham’s Performance
The Yankees’ decision to extend a qualifying offer reflects their belief in Grisham’s value. His 2025 season was particularly promising, marked by an OPS of .811, a significant improvement over past performance. However, his defense raised concerns, possibly due to age or injury setbacks.
As the Yankees navigate this offseason, they will examine whether Grisham’s recent performance indicates his true potential. His ability to thrive at the plate and maintain his defensive capabilities will be critical to his future, whether with the Yankees or elsewhere.
