Yankees’ Qualifying Offer to Grisham Signals Bigger Plans - and Possibly, a Blockbuster Trade
At first glance, the Yankees bringing back Trent Grisham on a qualifying offer raised more eyebrows than expectations. Grisham accepting the deal felt like a curveball - not just because of his modest offensive production, but because of what it might mean for the rest of the roster. But dig a little deeper, and it starts to look less like a head-scratcher and more like a calculated setup for something bigger.
According to reports, the Yankees' front office had a pretty good sense that Grisham might accept the offer. That’s a key detail. If they anticipated this outcome, then it’s fair to assume they have a plan in place - and it might not be limited to simply slotting Grisham into the 2026 outfield mix.
Let’s connect the dots.
Grisham Over Bellinger? It Might Be About More Than Just 2026
If the Yankees were choosing between Grisham and a reunion with Cody Bellinger, the decision carries significant implications. Bellinger, with his reverse splits and a .353 average against lefties in 2025, would’ve helped balance a lineup that leans heavily left-handed. Grisham doesn’t offer that same offensive upside, especially not against southpaws.
So why make this move? Because it’s not just about Grisham. It’s about what his presence allows the Yankees to do next.
By bringing Grisham back, the Yankees may be signaling a willingness to move on - at least temporarily - from top outfield prospects Jasson Dominguez and Spencer Jones. Both have sky-high ceilings, but they’re still developing, and the team’s recent messaging has hinted that they might not be centerpieces in the immediate future. Brian Cashman himself suggested they could be fallback options rather than front-line plans for 2026.
That opens the door to something bigger.
Dominguez and Jones: Trade Chips, Not Roster Locks?
If the Yankees are willing to let Grisham hold down center field - or at least serve as a stopgap - that could mean they’re preparing to use their outfield depth as trade ammunition. Dominguez and Jones are two of the most intriguing young bats in the system. Package one (or both) with a young pitcher from a farm system that’s quietly restocked with arms, and suddenly the Yankees are in position to chase a major upgrade.
And make no mistake - the market has some names that could move the needle.
Rotation Help? Plenty of Trade Targets Out There
The Yankees’ rotation needs help. That’s not news.
What is interesting is the possibility that they prefer the trade market over free agency to address it. And that market has some intriguing names: Freddy Peralta, Joe Ryan, Pablo López - all pitchers who could slot into the top half of a rotation and make an impact in October.
Going this route would allow the Yankees to avoid the long-term commitments that come with top-tier free agents, while still adding a difference-maker to their staff.
Or Could It Be a Star-Level Splash?
Then there’s the nuclear option - swinging for a superstar.
One scenario making the rounds: the Yankees exploring a deal for Fernando Tatis Jr. from the Padres. Now, San Diego has insisted Tatis isn’t available, but the situation there is complicated. Ownership turmoil, payroll concerns, and roster holes could force them to listen, especially if the right offer comes along.
Would the Yankees be bold enough to make that kind of move? If they believe their window to win is now - and with Aaron Judge and Gerrit Cole in their primes, it is - then yes, they might be.
There’s also the possibility of targeting a big-name bat like Corey Seager, especially if the Texas Rangers are looking to shed payroll. It’s a long shot, but the Yankees have the prospect capital and the financial muscle to make that kind of deal happen.
The Bottom Line: Something’s Coming
The Yankees didn’t offer Trent Grisham a qualifying deal by accident. They knew he might accept.
They also knew what that would mean for their outfield depth chart. So this feels like the first domino - not the last.
Whether it’s a rotation upgrade, a splashy outfield addition, or a surprise star acquisition, the Yankees are setting the table for something significant. Dominguez and Jones may not be odd men out - they might be the keys to unlocking a blockbuster.
Stay tuned. The offseason may have just begun, but in the Bronx, the chessboard is already in motion.