The New York Yankees are off to a good start in 2026, with a record of 12-9 and tied for first in the AL East. That being said, a few of their bats are still ice cold, and addressing that early on in the season might be in their best interest.
One of those bats is Trent Grisham, who’s slashing .145/.303/.290/.593. WIth that in mind, Sports Illustrated’s Patrick McAvoy predicts the Yanks could find a potential replacement, in Washington Nationals All-Star James Wood.
“If the Washington Nationals want to supercharge their rebuild, flipping the 23-year-old may be their best bet. He had 31 homers in 2025 and was an All-Star for the first time throughout his young career in just his second season. In 2026, he already has five homers in 17 games played. The Nationals shouldn’t trade Wood. But he will be someone to watch throughout the campaign if the Nationals flounder. Potential Landing Spots: New York Yankees, San Diego Padres, Houston Astros,” McAvoy wrote.
So far this season, Wood is slashing .256/.385/.570/.954 with six doubles, seven home runs, 18 RBI, and four stolen bases in 21 games. He would slot in at left field, and push Cody Bellinger to center, taking Grisham’s place.
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The best part about him other than his talent is his age, and because of it, his price. He still has a year of pre-arbitration after this season, and then full arbitration before he hits free agency.
With only a year left on Grisham’s contract, this seems like a perfect move to make. They’ll have to give up some prospects and young players, but this could be New York’s chance to level up their roster.
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