During Tuesday’s episode of Yankees Hot Stove, YES Jack Curry from the network reported that the Yankees have had discussions with first baseman Paul Goldschmidt about a return to the Bronx. However, the Yankees are looking at Goldschmidt, 38, as a platoon player to initially pair with Ben Rice.
Goldschmidt had a mediocre season with the Yankees in 2025. He posted a batting line of .274/.328/.403 in his 534 plate appearances, hitting 10 home runs and 31 doubles. Goldschmidt still does, though hit the left-handed pitching wellwith a batting line of .336/.411/.570 with seven home runs and 14 doubles in 168 at-bats against lefties.
Paul Goldschmidt would help balance the left-heavy Yankees lineup
As it stands now, the Yankees are projected to have just three right-handed hitters – outfielder Aaron Judge, designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton and shortstop Jose Caballero – in the lineup. General Manager Brian Cashman previously recognized that is a potential problem for the Yankees, but he also stated that the Yankees would not trade for a right-handed hitter if there is already a better left-handed option on the roster.
Goldschmidt would help alleviate some of that problem. He would be an ideal platoon option next to Rice, while giving the Yankees a solid option as a pinch hitter. With Goldschmidt on the roster, Rice could also spend some time behind the plate, especially if Austin Wells fails to get back on track offensively.
The question is whether or not Goldschmidt would accept a smaller role. He had said that he plans to play in 2026, but there are few reports of other interested teams outside the Diamondbacks. The Yankees and Goldschmidt may be the best options for each other.
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