Yankees sign veteran outfielder and former first round pick

The New York Yankees have added a familiar face to their spring training roster, agreeing to a minor-league contract with veteran outfielder Randal Grichuk that includes a non-roster invitation to Major League camp as the club continues shaping its 2026 roster. At 34, Grichuk brings a right-handed bat and power potential to a Yankees squad that has been searching for lineup balance, particularly against left-handed pitching. His signing comes as part of New York’s efforts to address its bench depth and find options who can impact games in platoon roles or come off the bench when needed.

RELATED: Yankees, Aaron Judge championship window might be closed

A Veteran with a Track Record

Jul 22, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder Randal Grichuk against the Houston Astros at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Grichuk, originally a first-round draft pick (seventh overall in 2012), enters the Yankees’ camp with over a decade of MLB experience. Over his career with multiple clubs, including the St. Louis Cardinals, Toronto Blue Jays, and most recently the Kansas City Royals and Arizona Diamondbacks, he has amassed more than 200 home runs and established himself as a reliable corner outfielder with pop in his bat.

Though his 2025 season was below his career averages, he slashed .228/.273/.401 between Arizona and Kansas City, teams value Grichuk’s experience and ability to contribute in the right situations.

Why the Yankees Brought Him In

Mar 22, 2022; Dunedin, Florida, USA; Toronto Blue Jays center fielder Randal Grichuk (15) runs the bases after hitting a grand slam in the fourth inning against the New York Yankees during spring training at TD Ballpark. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports

New York’s lineup for 2026 is loaded with left-handed hitters, and adding a right-handed bat like Grichuk helps balance the roster, especially against tough southpaw starters. Yankees executives have openly stated their interest in right-handed offensive options this offseason, and Grichuk fits that need without requiring a guaranteed major-league contract.

Under the terms of the deal, Grichuk will compete with other outfielders during Spring Training for a roster spot. If he performs well, he could find himself on the Opening Day roster as a platoon option or a depth piece off the bench.