The New York Yankees are adding more right-handed bats to their lineup and have brought back first baseman Paul Goldschmidt on a one-year contract. This decision comes after careful consideration of Goldschmidt’s recent performance and his potential role on the team.
Goldschmidt is now seen as mainly a platoon player. Last season, he excelled against left-handed pitchers, posting a stunning 169 wRC+, which places him among the top hitters in the league. However, his performance against right-handers has dropped significantly, with a wRC+ of just 74, putting him near the bottom for that category. This trend is concerning as it’s been consistent for a few seasons.
At 38, Goldschmidt has shifted his hitting style. He focused more on making contact, resulting in 10 home runs over 146 games. This change followed a tough season in 2024, where he struggled with a wRC+ of 100. His numbers remained modest, with a wRC+ of 103 in 2025.
As the previous season progressed, Goldschmidt saw less playing time. Young player Ben Rice emerged as a standout hitter, benefiting from Goldschmidt’s guidance. Rice’s performance against lefties was promising, with a wRC+ of 104, but Goldschmidt’s return could change that dynamic.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone mentioned that Rice might have been slated for more at-bats, particularly against left-handed pitching. Goldschmidt’s OPS from June through the end of the season was 0.676, which raises questions about his current effectiveness. Nevertheless, his expected OPS stood at a much higher 0.952, hinting he still has untapped potential.
Goldschmidt’s situation is reminiscent of past players who struggled late in their careers. The Yankees need to prioritize a clear role for him, focusing primarily on matchups against lefties. This approach could protect the team’s performance.
With Goldschmidt on board, the Yankees’ bench looks intriguing. Currently, three of the four spots are secured: Goldschmidt, infielder Amed Rosario, and backup catcher J.C. Escarra. The final spot appears to be a contest between Jasson Domínguez and Oswaldo Cabrera. Cabrera brings strong defensive versatility, which is advantageous, particularly with Anthony Volpe sidelined.
Goldschmidt has been a significant player throughout his career, with impressive stats: 1,232 RBIs, 372 home runs, and 2,190 hits. He could be seen as a future Hall of Fame candidate if he maintains his performance.
By re-signing Goldschmidt, the Yankees are retaining a solid core from last season. This strategy suggests they believe that continuity in their roster is key to success in the upcoming season.
In sports today, there’s a noticeable trend of teams opting for stability over major overhauls. This could reflect a growing belief in the value of team chemistry and established players in driving performance. The Yankees are betting on this approach as they move forward.
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New York Yankees, MLB
