The New York Yankees 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 training camp as the club continues to build its 2026 roster. Grichuk, 34, brings a right-handed bat and power potential to the Yankees, who have been looking for lineup balance, especially against left-handed pitching. His signing is part of New York’s efforts to address depth issues and find options that can impact games in a platoon role or come off the bench when needed.
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Veterans with a proven track record
July 22, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder Randall Grichuk against the Houston Astros at Chase Field. Mandatory photo credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Originally a first-round draft pick (seventh overall in 2012), Grichuk entered the Yankees camp with more than a decade of MLB experience. During 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 accumulated over 200 home runs and established himself as a reliable corner outfielder.
Although his 2025 season was below his career average, as he slashed .228/.273/.401 between Arizona and Kansas City, teams value Grichuk’s experience and ability to contribute in the right situations.
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Why did the Yankees bring him in?
March 22, 2022; Dunedin, FL, USA; Toronto Blue Jays center fielder Randal Grichuk (15) carries a baserunner 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 2026 roster is loaded with left-handed hitters, and adding a right-handed hitter like Grichuk could help balance the lineup, especially against tough left-handed starters. Yankees executives have publicly stated their interest in right-handed offensive options this offseason, and Grichuk fills that need without a guaranteed major league contract.
Under the terms of the agreement, Grichuk will compete with other outfielders for a roster spot during spring training. If he performs well, he could be on the Opening Day roster as a backup or depth piece.
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