The New York Yankees face another offseason filled with uncertainty regarding their outfield for the upcoming season. After losing star Juan Soto to the New York Mets last year, the team could potentially part ways with another key player, Cody Bellinger, creating further gaps in their outfield lineup.
Yankees General Manager Brian Cashman is under pressure to make impactful choices this winter, with speculation mounting around coveted free agent outfielder Kyle Tucker. Additionally, Cashman extended a qualified offer of $22.025 million to Trent Grisham, another player whose future remains uncertain.
Grisham, coming off a solid season in 2025, has raised his free agent value significantly, leading many to predict he may decline the qualifying offer to explore a lucrative deal. Tim Kelly of Bleacher Report forecasts that Grisham could land with the Houston Astros, a formidable force within the American League West.
In 2025, Grisham recorded a .235 batting average, complemented by an impressive 34 home runs and 74 RBIs, resulting in an .811 OPS. These statistics bolster his appeal on the free agent market, even though the qualifying offer may slightly limit his value. Kelly noted that Grisham’s previous season saw him posting a .675 OPS, indicating a marked improvement this year.
Despite his offensive success, Grisham’s defensive performance was subpar in 2025, registering a minus-11 defensive runs saved and minus-two outs above average. This marked the worst defensive season of his career, especially notable given his prior accolades, including two Gold Gloves. Teams will need to carefully assess the reasons behind his defensive struggles, as his true value lies in his ability to perform effectively in center field rather than in a corner outfield position.
If Grisham joins the Astros, he could fill various roles in the outfield, most likely starting in centerfield under manager Joe Espada, although the option remains to utilize him in a corner spot if defensive concerns arise. Grisham’s left-handed batting could provide a significant boost to the Astros lineup, which is seeking additional offensive power.
Other teams, including the Texas Rangers, Philadelphia Phillies, and Kansas City Royals, are also expected to have interest in Grisham, highlighting the competitive nature of this offseason’s free agency period. Kelly projects a three-year, $55 million contract for the 29-year-old should he sign with Houston, marking a pivotal moment in his career. The real question will be whether Grisham can replicate his standout performance or whether it was specifically influenced by playing in the hitter-friendly confines of Yankee Stadium. As the winter progresses, teams will closely evaluate Grisham’s potential fit and value in their lineups.